Elton Guffey

Elton Eugene Guffey, affectionately known as Gene, was born on July 20, 1929, in McMinnville, Tennessee. After a life defined by adventure, love, and remarkable achievements, Gene departed this world on November 9, 2025 at the age of 96 years old, in Erlanger East, leaving behind cherished memories and an enduring legacy.

A true patriot, Gene devoted 25 years of his life to the United States Navy, where he served with distinction, flying combat missions on the USS Princeton during the Korean War and later participating in non-combat operations in Vietnam. His contributions and experiences shaped him into a remarkable individual—one whose calm, loving, kind, generous, and compassionate nature touched all who were fortunate enough to know him. Gene’s proudest accomplishments extended beyond his military service; he also dedicated 19 years as a magistrate in North Carolina, earning respect within his community for his integrity and fairness.

Gene’s love for aviation was matched only by his affection for family and faith. He spent many years flying planes, a passion that brought him great joy and countless stories of flight and combat. His adventures took him around the world, showing him many places and allowing him to experience the beauty of life on all continents. Throughout his journeys, Gene always carried with him an unwavering love for Jesus, grounding himself in his faith during his travels and life experiences.

He is lovingly remembered by his sister, Ruth Guffey Holt of Birmingham, Alabama; his daughter, Joy Rose, and son, David Guffey, both of Murphy, North Carolina; step-son, Eddie Arrowood of Murphy; and adopted daughter, Delores Frazier of Meadville, Pennsylvania. His family, which includes granddaughter Angie Rich and great-granddaughters Wendy (Adam) Ward, Channyn (Levi) Killian, and great-great-granddaughters Addyson Ward, Mckenna Ward, Ellyana Ward, and Oaklee Killian, all of Murphy,  also many nieces and nephews will forever cherish his wisdom, guidance, and warmth.

Gene is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Faye Guffey of 42 years, as well as his parents, Ruth Tallet Guffey and Wade Hayes Guffey, both of Andrews, North Carolina. Additionally, his brothers, Thomas Frank Guffey Sr. of Andrews, Howard Taft Guffey of Englewood, Tennessee, and Hal Guffey of Greenville, South Carolina, along with his Son-in-law Bucky Rose, Step- son Wally Arrowood and Grand-son Jay Arrowood of Peachtree, North Carolina, and his nephew, Jim Guffey, and niece, Virginia Guffey Adams, have reunited with him in eternal peace.

The family invites all who knew and loved Gene to join them for visitation at Old Fashion Baptist Church, located at 732 Floyd Stalcup Road in Murphy, North Carolina, on November 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. A funeral service will occur the same day at 3:00 PM, followed by burial at 4:00 PM at the church. Pallbearers are Adam Ward, Levi Killian, Todd Geer, Bruce Little, Robert Truett, Ray Cook Honorary Pallbearers are Bobby May and Michael Carringer. 

As we say goodbye to this remarkable man, we hold onto the stories he shared, the laughter that filled our hearts, and the love that will always remain. Gene Guffey truly was a man of the skies, and his spirit will soar on, forever remembered in the hearts of many, he took one final flight on a new set of wings into the arms of Jesus his Lord and Savior.

In lieu of flowers donations are welcome to go to Old Fashioned Baptist Church, or the VFW.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Elton Eugene Guffey.  Sign the guest register and send condolences online at www.cochranmcdaniel.com.