Kansas City Mourns the Passing of Eugene C. Hall
Kansas City, Missouri bids farewell to Eugene C. Hall, a respected attorney and passionate musician, who passed away at the age of 94 on December 21, 2024. Mr. Hall died at St. Luke’s Hospital, surrounded by his loving family, leaving behind a legacy that spans several decades in both law and music.
Mass of Christian Burial Arrangements
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on December 27, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Visitation Church, located at 5141 Main St., Kansas City. Following the mass, a private graveside service will take place for family members only. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to two charitable organizations: The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra and The Salvation Army.
A Life of Accomplishment
Born on July 9, 1930, in Kansas City, Mr. Hall dedicated most of his life to serving his community and pursuing his passion for music. After graduating from Southwest High School, he furthered his education at Kansas University, where he earned two degrees in Fine Arts—one in piano and another in composition. His involvement in music extended to conducting a dance orchestra known as the “Gene Hall Orchestra” during his university years.
Mr. Hall’s pursuit of law led him to the University of Missouri at Kansas City, where he became Justice (President) of the Phi Alpha Delta law fraternity. After earning his law degree, he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955, stationed in Japan. He continued serving in the Army Reserve for 11 years, eventually rising to the rank of major.
Legal Career and Community Service
After returning from military service, Mr. Hall took up the role of attorney and served as Assistant Secretary for Hallmark Cards, Inc. from 1958 to 1970. He later joined the Gage and Tucker law firm (now known as Lathrop GPM), where he retired as a senior partner in 1993. His distinguished legal career earned him recognition from the Missouri Bar, which honored him in 2008 for 50 years of service.
Mr. Hall’s commitment to the community was evident through his various roles, including being a member and past president of the Advisory Board of St. Mary’s Hospital and chairman of both the Downtown YMCA Board and The Salvation Army Advisory Board. His efforts earned him the National Humanitarian Award from the Sisters of Saint Mary in 1974.
A Legacy in Music
Following his legal career, Mr. Hall rekindled his love for music. He recorded several piano albums and became the pianist and arranger for local jazz bands, including the Johnson County Community College Jazz Band and the Kansas City, Kansas Community College Jazz Band. His recordings often included personal compositions, and he donated the profits to charity.
In 2003, he co-founded the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra, serving as both a director and president. The orchestra has become a regular performer at the Helzberg Hall in the Kauffman Performing Arts Center, cementing Mr. Hall’s influence in the local jazz scene.
Family and Legacy
Eugene Hall was preceded in death by his first wife, Virginia, his parents, Elmer and Anna, and his brother, Allan. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda B. Hall, their four children, and four grandchildren. The couple celebrated 39 years of marriage filled with travel, memorable traditions, and a shared love for music and community gatherings.
Mr. Hall’s remarkable journey left an indelible mark on Kansas City, highlighting his contributions as a legal professional and a passionate musician. His family, colleagues, and the community will remember him fondly for his dedication and spirit.
