Eugene Minnifield Sr., affectionately known as “Gene,” was born on April 22, 1948, in Charleston, West Virginia, to the late A.C. Minnifield and Maggie Minnifield-Mitchell.
Gene spent part of his youth in San Diego, California, where he graduated from high school. He went on to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, receiving an honorable discharge. Following his military service, Gene pursued his passion for mortuary science and earned his credentials from the University of Mortuary Science.
Driven by a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to continue his family’s legacy, Gene explored a variety of business ventures in which his family members were proprietors, including restaurants, a landscaping business, cosmetology practices, and even a Black golf magazine. In 1992, he made history by opening the first Black-owned funeral home in Sandusky, Ohio, operating under the slogan, “Where you get the best of care from caring people.” The business served the community from 1992 to 1994.
Gene continued his work in the funeral profession, lending his expertise to establishments such as House of Wills and Day Funeral Home. Known for his skill and knowledge, he was often called upon to assist other funeral homes. In 2015, he established Minnifield Funeral Home in Canton, Ohio, continuing his commitment to serving families with compassion and excellence.
At an early age, Gene accepted the Lord and later answered his call to ministry. He had a love for music, playing the piano, and sharing his beautiful singing voice. Outside of his professional life, Gene was a homebody who found joy in simple pleasures like spending time at home and enjoying his favorite foods, including chicken, fried bologna sandwiches, and boiled peanuts. Need we say more?
On May 19, 2026, Gene transitioned peacefully, surrounded by his loving family at the Veterans Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio.
He is survived by his loving wife, Kimberley Hampton-Minnifield; his sons, Hunter E. Minnifield, Kendell A. Minnifield, and Lance Minnifield, all of Cleveland, OH, and Eugene Minnifield Jr. of Fort Washington, MD; his sister, Dr. Mary Lynn Cook of Youngstown, OH; his brother, Keith Mitchell of San Antonio, TX; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Gene was preceded in death by his brothers, Curtis Minnifield and James Minnifield.
ORDER OF SERVICE
Processional — Apostle Eugene Minnifield Jr.
Scripture Reading — Pastor Stefanie Millender
Prayer of Comfort — Pastor Thomas Millender
Minister in Song — Bronson Landrum
Remarks/Resolutions — Church of the Living God
Remarks Family & Friends — Please limit remarks to 2 minutes
Obituary — Read silently
Minister in Song — Bronson Landrum
Eulogy — Apostle Eugene Minnifield Jr.
Minister in Song — Bronson Landrum
Recessional — Minister Broson Landrum
PALLBEARERS
- Lance Minnifield
- Eugene Minnifield Jr.
- Kendell A. Minnifield
- Hunter Minnifield
- Darnell White
- Mark Gossette
