Arthur E. “Gene” McGaha, Jr., 84, died Monday, March 5, 2018. A native of Transylvania County, he was born May 12, 1933. His parents were Arthur E. McGaha, Sr. and Beatrice Henderson McGaha.
An outstanding player at Brevard High School, he was chosen for the Asheville Citizen All WNC Scholastic football team in 1951. After graduating in 1952, he attended Asheville-Biltmore College where he played football for Coach Max Spurlin. He was selected most valuable player in 1953.
He was stationed in Germany while serving in the U.S. Army for two years. After discharge, he was employed at Ecusta for 37 years, retiring in 1993. A life member of the VFW, he had served as commander of Brevard Post 4309.
Preceding him in death were his parents, daughter, Lois M. Wyatt, grandsons, Eric Hudson and Cody Lail, and brother, Lynn “Bud” McGaha.
Survivors include his wife of sixty years, Jenny Erickson McGaha; two sons, Mark McGaha (Connie), Dean McGaha (Jennifer); eight grandchildren: Emily Hudson, Daniel McGaha (Brittany), Kelsey McGaha, Gabrielle Tygh, Avery McGaha, Emery McGaha, Lindsey Lail, and Zachary Bracken; one great-granddaughter, Danika Hudson; one brother, Joseph McGaha (Gail); several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 2 PM Thursday, March 8, 2018 at Blue Ridge Gardens of Memory with his grandson, Rev. Daniel McGaha officiating. Military rites will be provided by the Transylvania County Honor Guard.
Memorial donations may be made to CarePartners Hospice, 1266 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712
Moody-Connolly Life Celebrations is caring for the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com.