Charlie Eugene “Gene” Efird Jr., age 73, went home to be with the Lord on September 28, 2019.

Gene was born and raised on a farm in Cabarrus County. He was a graduate of Bethel High School, King’s Business College as well as the School of Banking at Chapel Hill. He also served his country in the Air National Guard with an honorable discharge.

Gene began his banking career with Am. Bank & Trust, now BB&T, where he served as Vice President. He left after 12 years of service to pursue his love of farming. Gene was a jack-of-all-trades including construction and masonry. Later, he answered the call again with Bank of Union, now Fifth Third, opening a new branch in Waxhaw, NC where he served as Vice President and Manager for the following 11 years. He retired from First Charter in 2000.

Gene was a member of Indian Trail Presbyterian Church for many years, serving as Chairman of the Board of Deacons. He later returned to his roots as a Baptist, joining Ebenezer Baptist Church in Monroe, NC.

Gene is predeceased by his parents Charlie and Colin Efird. He is survived by his high school sweetheart of 48 years, Tammy Shepherd Efird and beloved daughter, Mary Middleton and husband Woody of Midland, NC. Also, surviving are sisters Maxine (John) Crowell and Patricia Tomberlin, all of Midland, NC as well as many nieces and nephews.

Carolina Cremation is serving the family, who will receive friends at home where he was the happiest.

Memorials may be sent to Hospice of Cabarrus County, Hopewell Baptist Church Monroe, NC or Gilwood Presbyterian Church’s Permanent Scholarship fund Concord, NC.