Eugene "Gene" Lee Smallman, age 85, of Granite City, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, February 18, 2022. Gene was born on May 20, 1936 in Hammond, IN, the youngest son of the late Benjamin Smallman and Hilda (Lehtonen) Smallman.
On January 3, 1981, Gene married Pamela "Pam" Smallman, the love of his life, in Granite City, IL. He was raised in East Chicago, IN and graduated from Roosevelt High School, an accomplished wrestler. Gene was a proud alumnus of Arizona State University. With a sharp memory for facts and dates, Gene taught world history, American history, and civics at Granite City Senior High School for many years, reluctantly retiring in 1995. He missed teaching so much that several years later he went on to teach at Lindenwood University in their accelerated bachelor's program. A citizen of the world, Gene enjoyed exploring other countries and cultures; throughout his career he organized 15 international trips for groups of high school students.
Gene loved a good laugh; he never tired of shows like Seinfeld or Curb Your Enthusiasm, and appreciated a good natured prank. He loved telling stories, especially his tall tales from fishing adventures. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. Gene loved life, he loved learning, but most of all he loved his family. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Pam Smallman, and two brothers, Benjamin "Bob" Robert Smallman and Richard "Dick" Allen Smallman. Gene is survived by his loving children, Lora (Jacob) Del Rio of Edwardsville, IL, Tyler Smallman of Atlanta, GA and Emily (Twon Nixon) Smallman of Granite City, IL; dear brother, Jack (Joan) Smallman of New Braunfels, Texas; proud grandpa to Henry Franklin Del Rio and Arthur Eugene Smallman; nieces, nephews, extended family and many wonderful friends.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, February 28, 2022 at Sunset Hill Funeral Home, Glen Carbon, IL. In celebration of his life, funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. on the same day with Pastor Mike Rayson officiating. Interment will be in Sunset Hill Memorial Estates, Glen Carbon, IL.

Donations

Memorial donations may be given to Madison County Historical Society, Edwardsville, IL. https://madcohistory.org/