Obituary of Joseph M. Gaffney

Joseph Michael Gaffney, 89, died Thursday, July 22, 2010 at Watauga Medical Center in Boone, NC after a brief illness. He was born December 11, 1920 in White Plains, NY to the late Michael and Catherine Gaffney. In addition to his parents, his wife of 65 years, Sanna Ross Gaffney, and brother William preceded him in death. He is survived by his children; Sanna G. Miller (Michael) of Greenacres City, FL, Gail G. Williamson (Robert) of Tazewell, TN, Ross M. Gaffney of Coral Springs, FL and Jill G. Privott (Warren) of Boone, NC; grandchildren Daniel Morse of Lantana, FL, , Kenna W. Ayers of Nashville, TN, Kyle Morse of Boynton Beach, FL, Joseph Privott of Boone, NC, Katrina Gaffney and Kaden Gaffney of Hollywood, FL; one great-grandson, Tyler Morse of Lantana FL and many beloved nieces and nephews. A veteran of World War II, he served in the United States Army Air Forces until his Honorable Discharge as Sergeant after which he joined the White Plains, NY Police Department. He moved to the Town of Palm Beach, FL Police Department in 1953 where he was Chief of Police from 1974 until his retirement in 1978. He was a graduate of the 85th Session of the FBI National Academy of the United States Department of Justice and completed numerous accreditation and certification programs through the State of Florida, Florida Atlantic University, the University of the State of New York, Northwestern University and others. He was active in Kiwanis International in Florida and Boone, NC, the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, Watauga Crimestoppers, Boy Scouts, Meals on Wheels and many youth sports programs. The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 14, 2010 from 1 pm until 3 pm at Austin and Barnes Funeral Home, 194 Queen Street, Boone, NC. Graveside service and burial will be private. Online condolences may be sent to the Gaffney family at austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Gaffney family.