John Henry Druffel III

John Henry Druffel, III, (84) of Franklin was called home to be with his Heavenly Father on Friday, September 26, 2025.

John was preceded in death by both of his parents, John H. Druffel, Jr and Elaine Pund Druffel; his second wife, Dianne (Foster) Druffel; and his brother, Frank X. Druffel.

John is survived by his wife, Lorraine R. Druffel (Ros), along with his biological children he shared with his first wife, Betsy H. Casto including John Brooking Druffel (Kim) and Elaine D. Moss. John was also blessed with stepchildren he shared with his second wife, Dianne, that included Lisa (Robert) Nadler, Kathy (Mark) Deuser, Suzanne (Mike) Comstock and Raymond (Liz) Reilly along with many grandchildren. Ros and John also shared a stepson, Kurt Barbee.

John's early as being careers included bank president, commodore at the Naples Sailing and Yacht Club as well as being an advocate for Ducks Unlimited and organizing local outdoor events. John was known for being helpful to his friends and neighbors in the Naples, Florida community.

Upon John's move to the North Carolina mountains in 1981, he promptly began to fit in with mountain life and made many friends in the small community. His love of the outdoors, fine shotguns, bird hunting, bird dogs and fly fishing seemed appropriate for his next adventure as the business owner of a fly-fishing store, shooting club and landscape company. Brookings was founded in 1988, Smokerise Field Club was also founded in 1988 and The Garden Cottage (1982) all became successful businesses in Cashiers.

John's faith was a cornerstone of his life and he was a devoted member of the church, always eager to share his beliefs and support others.

He found joy in upland bird hunting, fly fishing, canoes, Wisconsin, and most importantly, his family. Holidays and gatherings with loved ones were among his greatest joys.

John, known for his patient and caring demeanor, was always ready to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or share his wisdom. His legacy of faith, kindness and generosity will continue to inspire and impact generations. He will be deeply missed by many.

Psalms 23:6 "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell the house of the Lord forever".

A funeral service will be held for John on Saturday, October 4th 2025 at 12:00pm in the chapel of Appalachian Funeral Services with Pastor David Beam officiating. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place immediately following the service at Pine Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pine Creek Baptist Church at PO Box 1153, Cashiers, NC. 28717.

An online memorial register is available at "Obituaries" at www.appalachianfuneralservices.com.