Earnest Eugene Pharr

Earnest Eugene Pharr, 91, of Indian Land, SC, died at home on December 13, 2024. Gene was born October 23, 1933, in Chattanooga, TN to Earl and Louise Godsey Pharr. He grew up in Oak Ridge, TN where he participated in a wide range of sports earning a membership in the Oak Ridge Sports Hall of Fame.

Gene was an avid sportsman and especially loved football and baseball. He was recruited to play both sports at Texas Tech University but instead signed on with the Philadelphia Phillies organization as a first baseman. Eventually he ended that pursuit for his family but never lost his enthusiasm or his love of sports. Gene was an MP in the army, he served in Raleigh, NC with the police department, he worked as an insurance adjuster, and he was a restaurateur in Hilton Head, SC. He joined Pepsi Cola Co and retired from the company after 22 years. He was a notable golfer, earning five holes-in-one over his lifetime. Gene was an enthusiastic reader and sketch artist. He especially loved to draw cartoon characters.

Gene met Kay Christmas Dockstader on a blind date in 1980 and they were married March 20, 1982. Gene and Kay recently celebrated 42 years of marriage.

Gene is survived by his wife, Kay, daughter Paula Chambers (Deryle) of Cumming, GA, son, Gene Kallmeyer (Mary) of Stowe, OH, brothers Rev Dr. Gary Hill (Connie) of Bradenton, FL, Larry Pharr (Virginia) of Phoenix AZ and son in law Chris Eaker (Marcy) of Charlotte, NC. He is predeceased by his parents, step-father Freeman Hill, daughter Melissa Eaker, brother Don Pharr, and Granddaughter Rebekah Chambers, He leaves cherished memories of 11 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and many, many dear friends.

Gene will always be remembered for his calm demeanor, his sense of fairness his humor and his love for his family. He was always quick with a story or funny songs and kept us entertained with his easy going personality. He was a true Southern Gentleman and THE BEST PAPA.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 28 at 1:00 pm at Pineville United Methodist Church, Pineville, NC. With a reception to follow in the Crossroads Center. In lieu of flowers donations to Pineville United Methodist Church or VIA Health Partners are appreciated