It is with deep sadness that the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame announces the passing of James Eugene "Gene" Millard, a 2011 inductee and founding member of our Board of Trustees. Gene passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio, surrounded by his devoted family. His remarkable career and contributions to Ohio basketball have left an indelible mark on our community and the sport we love.
OBHOF Co-Founder Don Henderson presents Gene Millard with his award during Gene's 2011 Induction.
A Lifetime of Basketball Excellence
Gene Millard's basketball journey began at Stivers High School in Dayton, where he was an outstanding three-sport athlete on city championship teams. In 1953, Stivers was ranked the No. 1 Class A basketball team in Ohio, setting the stage for Gene's distinguished career.
His talent led him to Ohio State University, where he played guard and served as captain and MVP of the 1956-57 squad. Gene earned his place in Buckeye history by scoring the first basket at the iconic St. John Arena in 1956, a moment that symbolized the beginning of a new era in Ohio State basketball. When the Schottenstein Center opened in 1998, Gene was called upon to make the last ceremonial basket at St. John Arena, adding to his legacy at Ohio State University.
A Legendary Coaching Career
Gene's impact extended far beyond his playing days. After serving as an assistant coach at Ohio State (1957-58), his 33-year high school coaching career included four years at Washington Court House (1958-62) and 29 years at Bexley (1962-87, 1992-96), where he also served as athletics director and history teacher. His teams accumulated an impressive 496 victories, 15 league championships, and eight district titles, culminating in the 1983 state Class AA championship with Bexley.
In a remarkable encore to his boys' coaching career, Gene came out of retirement in 1998 to coach the Bexley girls' team, guiding them to an outstanding 19-1 record. Throughout his distinguished career, Gene received numerous awards and Hall of Fame inductions, honors he accepted with characteristic humility.
A Community Builder
Gene's influence extended throughout the Bexley community, where he supervised basketball programs at all levels – elementary, middle, and high school – and initiated the city recreation department's summer programs. His vision for developing young athletes created pathways for generations of Ohio basketball players.
His leadership extended to the broader basketball community as well. He directed the North-South All-Star game for six years and served on the Ohio District 10 Basketball Coaches Association board for 12 years. As a founding member of the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame Board of Trustees, Gene helped establish the foundation upon which we continue to celebrate Ohio's rich basketball heritage.
"Gene Millard represented everything that is great about Ohio basketball," said Doc Daugherty, Co-Founder of the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame. "As one of our founding board members, Gene brought the same dedication and excellence to building our Hall of Fame that he showed throughout his coaching career. His wisdom and integrity helped shape our organization from day one, and his legacy will continue to guide us forward."
Hall of Famers Jim Burson, Lou Mitchell, Gene Millard and Robin Freeman exchanged stories during the 2011 Induction Ceremony Reception.
A Family Man and Mentor
Born on February 1, 1935, in Dayton, Ohio, Gene built a life grounded in faith, commitment, and care for others. On March 19, 1955, he married his high school sweetheart, Sally Ann Settle, after their love story began in the 8th grade. Their remarkable 68-year marriage stood as a testament to enduring love and mutual devotion.
Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sally, and his cherished daughter, Becky Millard Attwood. He is survived by his children Todd Millard (Nancy), Michael Millard (Carol), and Mindy Millard Cain (Trevor), ten grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Coach Millard's impact extended far beyond the court. He was a father figure, mentor, and steady presence in the lives of countless students and athletes. His expectations were high — not only for performance but for character, discipline, and heart. Gene consistently credited his success to his beloved wife, Sally, the dedication of his players, and the support of his family and fellow coaches.
Remembering a Basketball Legend
The Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame extends our deepest condolences to Gene's family, friends, former players, and colleagues. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched as a player, coach, administrator, and mentor.
A visitation to honor and celebrate Gene's life will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Schoedinger Margarum Northeast, 1051 East Johnstown Road, Gahanna, OH. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Bexley Education Foundation: "Millard Family Fund."
For more information about Gene Millard's Hall of Fame career, please visit his inductee profile on our website.
