It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a remarkable friend who cherished life with an unmatched fervor. Nancy Eileen Hallmark, aged 53, departed from our midst on August 24th 2023, leaving behind a legacy of joy, love, and an insatiable zest for life.
Born on March 6th, 1970, in Sylacauga, Alabama. Eileen was a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to love, kindness, and resilience. She was the daughter of Robert Neal Hallmark and Jane Stuckey Hallmark Byard, she grew up in Sylacauga and Huntsville, where her warm-hearted nature endeared her to many lifelong friends.
She graduated from Grissom High School in 1988 and attended Auburn University where she was a member and Chapter President of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. She remained a dedicated and zealous Auburn fan for her entire life.
Her career in the wine business began with working for Quality Wines, her mother’s wine distributorship based in Huntsville. A true luminary in the world of wine, Eileen was not just a consummate wine professional, but also a mentor who shared her deep knowledge and passion for oenology with countless individuals, leaving an indelible mark on the wine industry and the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her career brought her travel throughout the world as well as employment based in Hawaii, Alabama and Georgia. She was a distinguished member of Les Dames d’Escoffier of Birmingham, The Junior League in Huntsville, Birmingham and Atlanta.
Eileen’s passion for life extended to her relationships, where her kindness and compassion knew no bounds. She was a devoted friend and a cherished confidant. Her laughter was infectious, and her insight was sought by many.
Eileen was a true bon vivant, she savored the richness of life, took pleasure in food, wine, culture, and social interactions. She lived life to the fullest and inspired others to do the same.
As we mourn the loss of Eileen, we find solace in knowing that her legacy lives on through the memories she created and the lives she touched. Eileen demonstrated that the true essence of life lies not in its duration but in the richness of experiences and the love we share.
She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her stepfather, Robert Byard; her brother, Robert Neal Hallmark II; her nephew, Robert Louis Harrison; two stepbrothers; and many loving friends.
A celebration of Eileen’s life will be held on Sunday, September 10th at 1pm at Laughlin Service Funeral Home in Huntsville, AL.. We invite all who knew and loved her to join us in remembering the joy, laughter, and love she brought into our lives.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Auburn School of Hospitality, Les Dames d’Esscoffier Scholarship Program or Dress for Success Atlanta.
