Gene Santoro

Gene Santoro, 75, of Maryville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026. Born on September 5, 1950, in Middletown, Ohio, Gene was the beloved son of Frank and Eleanore Santoro.

Gene earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in Marketing from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He dedicated many years of his professional life to healthcare administration, serving as a hospital administrator at Martin Memorial Medical Center in Stuart, Florida and as Marketing Director at St. Lucie Medical Center in Port St. Lucie, Florida. After his career in the hospital setting, Gene followed another passion and worked as a General Contractor, building homes and medical offices.

His remarkable ability to fix or build almost anything was widely admired.

Gene had a deep love for travel and enjoyed exploring the world alongside his beloved wife, Mary. Together they recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary, a testament to their enduring love and partnership.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. Gene is survived by his loving wife, Mary Santoro; his daughter Jennifer Wright and her husband Eric; his daughter Jessica Friia and her husband Keith; his son Zachary Santoro and his husband Brian Hershock.

He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Hannah Wright (Anthony Russo), Kyle Wright, and Olivia Wright (Toby Pedreira), as well as his treasured great-grandson, Bodhi Pedreira. Gene is also survived by his sister, Christine Grimes, along with many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, beloved aunt, Jeanne Berry, and many extended family members and friends.

Gene was known for his kindness, humility, and generous spirit. He was the kind of person who would help anyone in need without hesitation. Thoughtful and empathetic, Gene had a gentle nature and a heart that touched everyone who knew him. He was also incredibly intelligent and was often the person family and friends turned to when they needed advice or help solving a problem.

A wonderful storyteller with an infectious laugh, Gene had a way of bringing joy to those around him. Extraordinary people leave an impact and his warmth, wisdom, and humor will be deeply missed. The love he shared and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved him.

A memorial service will be held in his honor on Monday, March 16 at 2 PM at McCammon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home, 220 W. Broadway in Maryville, Tennessee.