Eugene Edward Gilhooly

He was born on April 24, 1929, son of the late John and Rose Gilhooly of Waterbury, Conn. He married his college sweetheart, Inez Johnson, in 1951, and they settled in Annapolis, where they raised two daughters.

He was an elementary-school principal for more than 30 years at schools in Linthicum, Tyler Heights and Davidsonville. His students adored him and he kept in touch with many throughout his life. He was an avid sportsman and loved being at the racetrack, where he was part owner of Schoolyard Stables, and playing golf. He was a devoted Catholic.

He was well known for his sense of humor. Those fortunate enough to be on his Christmas card list got a chuckle out of his cut-out photos and handwritten captions, headlined "All About Me."

He was a hands-on father and grandfather, getting down on the floor after dinner for a raucous game of catch, Hide and Seek, or Knuckles. The kids loved these happy moments.

He had high expectations of everyone around him, but always offered guidance and support when his loved ones needed it. For years, he was a devoted caregiver of his mother and wife.

He is survived by his daughters, Brenda Gilhooly of Lakeland, FL., and Nancy Purdy of Annapolis; his brother Ray; grandchildren Julie, Tim, Christopher and Cara; great-grandson Lincoln; his dear friend Marilyn Roberts; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by Inez and his older brother, John.

Gene will always be remembered as a vibrant, energetic and outgoing man, the "mayor" of any space he inhabited. He frequently referred to himself as "the happiest man on Earth." He put up a valiant fight to the end, but could not recover from his latest bout of pneumonia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association.

A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.