Melvin L. Gaffney

Melvin L. Gaffney

Evansville, Ind. - Melvin L. Gaffney, 91, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at The Good Samaritan Home.

Mel was born in Evansville, Indiana on June 19, 1929, to the late Earl and Mary (Roy) Gaffney. He was a 1948 graduate of Central High School where he played baseball. After high school, Mel went on to play semi-pro baseball. He honorably served in the United States Army and was a Korean War veteran. Mel retired from Whirlpool after 41 years of service. He was a faithful member of Bethlehem United Church of Christ for 45 years. Mel was also a member of the American Legion Funkhouser Post 8. Mel collected Ford Mustangs and later Street Rods. He enjoyed attending the annual Frog Follies for 23 years. Above all else, Mel loved his family and will be deeply missed.

Mel is survived by his wife of 56 years, Diane (Butler) Gaffney of Evansville, IN; daughter, Mary Gaffney (Wayne Cardwell) of Evansville, IN; sons, Phillip Gaffney (Lesa) of Evansville, IN and Gary Gaffney (Jan) of Houston, TX; grandchildren, Megan Gaffney, Addison Abbott, Alli Abbott, John Abbott, Caroline Barnhill, and Brett Paul (Dan); many nieces and nephews; and his dog, Buttons.

Mel was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Rebecca Rothstein; and brother, Earl Gaffney, Jr.

A celebration of Mel's life will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, April 3, 2021, at Bethlehem United Church of Christ, 6400 Oak Hill Rd., Evansville, IN 47725, with Rev. Emily Slade officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem United Church of Christ Cemetery with military honors.

Friends may visit from 1:00 PM until service time on Saturday at Bethlehem United Church of Christ.

Due to COVID-19 masks will be required by attendees.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bethlehem United Church of Christ.

The family would like to thank The Good Samaritan Home and Heart to Heart Hospice for their loving care and concern.

Condolences may be made online at www.browningfuneral.com.