Eugene Piersol, a devoted family man, decorated Navy veteran, and lifelong learner, passed away on May 26, 2025, in Florence, South Carolina. He was 97 years old.  Please come by the small chapel at Ebenezer Baptist Church to pay respects to Eugene's family and share memories of his life from 11:30-12:30 on June 5, 2025 at the Ebenezer Baptist Church, 524 S. Ebenezer Road, Florence, SC.  Military honors will be provided by the Veteran's Honor Guard at 2:00 p.m. at the Florence National Cemetery, 1009 Stockade Road, Florence, SC 29506.

Born on March 8, 1928, in Enid, Oklahoma, Eugene lived a life marked by service, curiosity, and craftsmanship. His journey began in the heartland of America and led him across the globe through his distinguished 34-year career in the United States Navy spanning WWII and the Korea and Vietnam conflicts. Enlisting as Corpsman he rose to the rank of Chief (E7) before accepting a commission as a Medical Officer and retiring as a Lieutenant Commander (O4), Eugene exemplified dedication and leadership throughout his military service.

Beyond his naval career, Eugene found joy and fulfillment in many pursuits. He had a passion for building model trains—a hobby that reflected both his precision and imagination. He took pleasure in caring for and driving his 1962 Rambler Classic to church.  He also took great pride in sewing clothes and quilts, creating pieces that were both practical and heartfelt. Even into his later years, Eugene remained intellectually curious; he continued to take college classes with a focus on studying the Bible and American history.  Because of the Navy Corpsman's association with U. S. Marine Corps fighting units, where they were respectfully nicknamed the "Doc", he was welcomed into the Florence chapter of the Marine Corps League.  Was an active member and served a stint as the chapter's Chaplin.

Faith played a central role in Eugene's life. He always had a church home wherever he lived and was deeply involved in its' ministry. His commitment to spiritual growth and community service was evident to all who knew him.

Eugene experienced both profound love and loss throughout his life. He was predeceased by his wives, Evie Piersol and Sarah Piersol; his sons Everett Piersol and Eric Piersol. Despite these losses, he remained a pillar of strength for his family.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Elaine McKay, son-in-law Leonard McKay, granddaughters; Evie Brown (spouse William Brown) and Cynthia Ellington (spouse Patrick Ellington), and great-grandchildren; Shay Brown, Austin Brown, and Connor Ellington. His legacy lives on through them—in their values, their memories of time spent together, and the stories they will continue to share.

May Eugene (Doc) Piersol's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as an enduring reminder of a life well-lived in service to others.

You are ivited to sign the guestbook at www.laytonandersonfh.com