Dr. Gene W. Scholes

Dr. Gene Wallace Scholes, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, respected educator, and distinguished academic leader, passed away on October 25, 2026, at the age of 84.

Gene dedicated his life to education, family, and helping others achieve their fullest potential. His career in education began as a high school teacher and basketball coach, where he developed a passion for teaching, mentoring young people, and inspiring others to succeed. These early experiences helped shape his lifelong commitment to education and leadership.

Gene earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from Eastern Michigan University and his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan. He also pursued advanced professional development in higher education leadership at Harvard University, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning and academic excellence.

His distinguished career in higher education included serving as Dean at Morehead State University and later as Vice President at Northern Kentucky University. Throughout his career, Gene was dedicated to academic excellence, supporting educators, and expanding opportunities for students. His journey from the high school classroom and basketball court to university leadership reflected his dedication, determination, and belief in the transformative power of education.

Following his tenure at Northern Kentucky University, Gene began what would become one of the most personally rewarding chapters of his professional life as a consultant to Fanning Howey, an architectural firm specializing in educational facilities. In this role, he helped school districts secure voter approval for bond issues that made the construction of new schools possible. It was work he took tremendous pride in, knowing that his efforts would positively influence the educational experiences of generations of young people.

Upon his retirement, Fanning Howey recognized Gene's extraordinary contributions in a letter that captured the lasting impact of his work:

"Every day tens of thousands of young people are learning and playing in a school that you had a direct hand in making a reality."

Those words perhaps best reflect the enduring legacy of a man who devoted his professional life to creating opportunities for others.

While his professional accomplishments were outstanding, those who knew him best know his greatest joy and most important part of his life was his family — his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a loving and devoted father who gave generously of himself, always willing to offer a helping hand, encouragement, or support whenever it was needed. His love for his family was evident not only in his words but in the countless ways he cared for them throughout his life.

Gene found great pleasure in life's simple gifts — listening to music, gathering with friends and family, and giving back to his community. He faithfully served on his neighborhood board and was a generous supporter of St. Timothy's, his local church. His life reflected a quiet generosity, a strong sense of responsibility, and a genuine desire to help others.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Audrey, who passed away on June 6, 2026. He is survived by his children, Mary Michelle Birrell and her husband, Dr. Stephen Birrell; Gene W. Scholes Jr. and his wife, Kathleen; and Lisa Marie Poirier and her husband, Phil; as well as his grandchildren, Corrine Elizabeth Langman and her husband, Derek; Paul Poirier; Jack Poirier and his wife, Randa; Grace Poirier; and Faith Hart and her husband, Nathan; his step-grandsons, Nick Birrell and Lachland Birrell; his great-grandchildren, Elijah Langman, Charlie Langman, Odeya Mae Poirier, and Ezekiel Wallace Poirier; and his siblings, Judy Dawson, Stephen Scholes, and George Scholes.

Gene will be remembered for his intelligence, integrity, strong work ethic, commitment to education, and, above all, his enduring love for his family. His influence will live on through the generations of his family and the countless students, educators, colleagues, and friends whose lives he touched.

In the months following the passing of his beloved Audrey, Gene experienced a profound and deeply personal encounter with the Lord. During this tender season of his life, he was touched by the love of Jesus, bringing a beautiful and meaningful conclusion to a life devoted to serving others.

Today, we find comfort in knowing that he is at peace in the presence of the Lord, reunited with his beloved Audrey and those who have gone before him.

His was a life well lived, a family deeply loved, and a legacy that will continue for generations to come.