Eugene Henry Koester

Eugene Henry Koester, Professor Emeritus of Music at Charleston Southern University, 91, of Pinopolis, SC, entered into eternal rest peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, February 3, 2023. 

Eugene was born September 24, 1931 in Charleston, SC, son of the late Thomas Frederick Koester and Lillie Todd Koester.  Eugene loved nothing more than saying he was a Charleston High School graduate and born in a house on King Street.  As a proud Charlestonian, he loved telling stories about the Lowcountry. At a young age he found his love for music which evolved into a passion fueled career which spanned over six decades.  He played piano through his early years which led him to the Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, Maryland where he studied under Austin Conradi. He graduated from The Baptist College of Charleston as a member of the founding class of 1969. He obtained a Masters of Music in Piano Performance from the University of South Carolina. Eugene was a valued member of the music faculty of Charleston Southern University since 1974 and retired Professor Emeritus of Music after 41 years as coordinator of piano studies. He continued as a part-time faculty member until the age of 89. Over the course of his career he played numerous recitals as well as performed at the Dock Street Theater and with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra. Some of his most treasured times were teaching moments with his students. He left such an impression on them personally and professionally that many students stayed in contact with him through the years. He cherished his time at Charleston Southern University, his students and colleagues of many years.  His most favorite time of year was Christmas and spending time with extended family of nieces and nephews, friends, students, and other love ones.  In addition to his passion for music he had a love for his family and his home in Pinopolis, SC.

Eugene is preceded in death by his first wife Katherine Stephens Koester of 44 years and mother to his three sons; and later his wife of 16 years Virginia Powers Koester. Eugene is survived by his sons, Eugene Henry Koester Jr. of Cross, SC, Stephen Dupre Koester of Ridgeville, SC, Charles Anthony Koester (Tanis) of Mount Pleasant, SC ; grandchildren, Anthony Koester (Brittnay), Lauren Jacik (Cory), Kristi Henderson, Brittanie Koester and two great-granddaughters Avalee and Amelia Jacik; and brother, Alan Koester of Charleston, SC. He is also survived by stepchildren Mary Brunson (Tom) of Lexington, SC; Davis Powers of Johns Island, SC and Bill Powers (Stephanie) of Tampa, FL and their families. 

The Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 10, 2023 in the Trinity Church Pinopolis, 1915 Pinopolis Road at 11:00 am.  Interment to follow in Bethany Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday, February 9, 2023 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in J. Henry Stuhr Inc., Northwoods Chapel, 2180 Greenridge Road, North Charleston, SC. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Eugene Koester Scholarship Fund at Charleston Southern University (℅ David Baggs, Vice-President for Development, Charleston Southern University 9200 University Blvd. Charleston, SC 29406)