Gerald E. Mahaffey's Obituary
Decatur-Gerald E. Mahaffey, 84, of Decatur, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2014 in his home surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
He was born September 29, 1929 in Wheeler, Illinois, the son of Harry Otis and Harriet Luetta May (Baker) Mahaffey. He graduated from Newton High School and served in the USMC. He worked at Mueller Company retiring with over forty years of service. He also was a real estate agent with Majors Realty. After retirement he went to work at CHELP for sixteen years. He enjoyed fishing, riding bikes, and spending time with his grandchildren. He married Rheta Earlene Shew February 9, 1952 in Hidalgo, Illinois. She preceded him in death April 13, 1993.
He leaves behind his daughters Debra Welton of Shelbyville, Betty (Dennis) Farrow of Decatur, Penny (Charles) Wakeland of Unionville, Tennessee, and Jeanne Robinson of Decatur, brother Donald (Darlene) Mahaffey of Montrose, sisters-in-law Wanda Mahaffey of Cowden and Imogene Mahaffey of Effingham, grandchildren Sarah Carl, Patricia (Jeff) Ellis, Steven (Nichole) Farrow, Melissa Farrow, Libby Farrow, Thomas (Ashley) Gerk, Katie, Amanda, and Abby Wakeland, and Keegan Robinson and Colton Robinson, and eighteen great-grandchildren.
He was reunited in Heaven with his parents, wife, son-in-law Mark Welton, and brothers Archie, Herschel, Otis, and Roy Mahaffey.
There are not enough words we can say to describe just how important our father was to us and what a powerful influence he will continue to be.
Services to celebrate Gerald’s life will be10 a.m. Saturday, August 30, 2014 at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Friday, August 29, 2014 at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will be in Graceland Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Lovington Church of God or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
The family of Gerald E. Mahaffey is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Gerald?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gerald?
Share a story where Gerald's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gerald you’ll never forget.
How did Gerald make you smile?