Eugene Minnifield

It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that we announce the passing of Eugene Minnifield, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Eugene departed this world peacefully on May 19, 2026, in the comforting presence of his family at the Lewis Stokes Veterans Administration Hospital of Cleveland. He was 78 years old. Eugene was born on April 22, 1948, in Charleston, West Virginia, to the late A.C. Minnifield and Maggie Minnifield. Raised with love and strong family values, Eugene carried these qualities throughout his life, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. Eugene’s journey took him from the sunny coasts of San Diego, California, where he graduated high school, to the battlefields of Vietnam. Answering the call to serve his country, Eugene enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he served with honor and distinction, earning an Honorable Discharge. His service was just the beginning of a lifetime dedicated to others. Following his military service, Eugene pursued his passion for mortuary science, graduating from university with a degree that would allow him to comfort and care for families during their times of greatest need. Eugene carried on his family’s entrepreneurial spirit, establishing the first Black-owned funeral home in Sandusky, Ohio. Minnifield Funeral Service became a pillar of the community, embodying Eugene's commitment to dignity and compassion. Until his health declined, he continued to serve the community through Minnifield Funeral Home in Canton, Ohio. Eugene’s ventures extended beyond the funeral service industry; he was also an entrepreneur in the restaurant, landscaping, cosmetology, and publishing industries, where he owned a golf magazine. His endeavors were a testament to his boundless energy and creativity. A man of deep faith, Eugene accepted the Lord at an early age and answered his call to ministry through music. His exceptional talent for playing the piano and his beautiful singing voice were gifts he shared generously with his church and community. Eugene was known for his warmth and humility, traits that were as comforting as his favorite meals of fried chicken, fried bologna sandwiches, and boiled peanuts. Eugene is survived by his devoted wife, Kimberly Hampton-Minnifield, who stood by his side through all of life’s trials and triumphs. He leaves behind a loving legacy through his sons, Hunter E. Minnifield, Kendell A. Minnifield, Lance (Niesha) Minnifield, all of Cleveland, Ohio, and Eugene Minnifield Jr. of Fort Washington, MD. He was a cherished brother to Dr. Mary Lynn Cook of Youngstown, Ohio, and Keith (Virginia) Mitchell of San Antonio, Texas. Eugene was also the proud grandfather of two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his legacy of love and kindness. He will be fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. A service to honor Eugene’s remarkable life will be held on May 30, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Calhoun Funeral Home and Cremation Service, located at 23000 Rockside Rd., Bedford Heights, Ohio 44146. Family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by Eugene are invited to gather in memory and celebration of a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Eugene’s name to a charity of your choice, in keeping with his spirit of generosity and community care. Eugene Minnifield will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but for the love and joy he brought to others. His legacy of service, faith, and family will live on in the hearts of those privileged to have known him.