Introduction: The Father of a Star

Behind many great figures stands a story of family, influence, and quiet support. For legendary actor Gene Hackman, part of that story belongs to his father, Eugene Ezra Hackman. While his son captured the world’s attention on the silver screen, Eugene lived a life far from the glamour of Hollywood, grounded in the steady rhythm of the printing press and the simple joys of family.

This is the story of Eugene Ezra Hackman, a hardworking man whose life provides a fascinating glimpse into the American working class of the 20th century and the humble origins of a cinematic icon.

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Eugene Ezra Hackman was born on May 24, 1903, in the small town of Rossville, Illinois. His parents, William Henry Hackman and Julia Ann Morrison, raised him in a family that would eventually move several times before settling in Danville, Illinois.

Growing up in the early 1900s, his upbringing was shaped by the values of the era: diligence, resilience, and a strong work ethic. These formative years in the heart of the Midwest laid the foundation for a life dedicated to his craft and his family.

A Lifelong Career in the Printing Press

For fifty years, Eugene Ezra Hackman dedicated himself to the demanding trade of a newspaper pressman. It was a profession that required precision and a steady hand, a world of ink and machinery that was a far cry from the Hollywood sets his son would one day command.

He operated the printing press for the Commercial-News in Danville and later worked for newspapers across the country, from Miami to Washington, D.C. His long career culminated in a five-year tenure at the Independent, Press-Telegram in Long Beach, California, from which he retired in 1971.

Family, Marriage, and a Famous Son

In 1927, Eugene married Ann Lyda Elizabeth Gray, a Canadian-born woman of English and Scottish descent. Together, they had two sons, Eugene Allen Hackman, who the world would come to know as Gene, and his brother, Richard.

The family faced its share of hardships. When Gene was just thirteen, his parents divorced, and his father left the family. Despite these challenges, the bonds of family remained a significant part of Eugene Ezra Hackman’s life, which later included a second marriage to his wife, Vera.

A Father’s Pride: The Night of the Oscars

Perhaps the most poignant moment in Eugene Ezra Hackman’s life came on the night of April 10, 1972. It was on this evening that his son, Gene Hackman, won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his iconic role in “The French Connection.”

His wife, Vera, later recalled the immense pride he felt. Surrounded by neighbors gathered in their living room, Eugene beamed as a wave of applause erupted when his son’s name was announced. It was a moment of pure joy, a father witnessing his son reach the pinnacle of his profession.

Later Years and Quiet Retirement

After a long and dedicated career, Eugene Ezra Hackman settled into a quiet retirement. He lived for a time in a trailer court in Long Beach before moving to Romoland, a small community near Perris, California.

His final years were spent away from the hustle and bustle, a peaceful conclusion to a life of hard work. On July 9, 1973, at the age of 70, Eugene Ezra Hackman passed away from a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy of quiet dedication.

Legacy of a Hardworking Man

Eugene Ezra Hackman’s story is not one of fame or fortune, but of the steady, unsung dedication of a working man. His life reflects the values of a generation and offers a humble, grounding counterpoint to the Hollywood stardom his son achieved.

He was a man who found his purpose not in the spotlight, but in the reliable hum of the printing press and the quiet pride he took in his family. In understanding the life of Eugene Ezra Hackman, we gain a richer appreciation for the man behind the legend.