Richard Loftis

Richard Marshall Loftis, 91, passed away on Tuesday, January 22, 2013.

Born in Henderson County, he was a son of the late Edna Earle (Marshall) and Theodore J. Loftis; however, he spent most of his life in Transylvania County. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Nell Cairnes Loftis, sisters; Mildred Wilson and Dorothy Hamilton, and brothers; Jack and Edward Loftis.

After graduating from Brevard High School, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 - 1945 in the South Pacific, Squadron VPB-116.  Upon the death of his two brothers, also serving in WW II, he was sent stateside and was stationed aboard the USS Absecon.  He was awarded the Air Medal with Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross Medal.

Upon completion of his military obligation, he was employed by Ecusta Corporation and retired in 1982 after 42 years of service.  He was an active member of Brevard First United Methodist Church and a member on the Gillespie Evergreen Cemetery committee. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed attending the Masters Tournament for a number of years.  A true people person, he treasured each and every friendship he made throughout his lifetime.

Surviving is his sister; Frances Hawkins of Pisgah Forest, NC, sons; Richard Edward Loftis of Pisgah Forest, NC and Charles Anthony (Tony) Loftis of Brevard, NC and daughter, Ann Loftis Wilkinson of Brevard, NC, granddaughters; Marsha ((Ryan) King of East Point, GA, and Leanne Loftis of McRae, GA, great grandson; Triston King of East Point, GA, and a number of special nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service in celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday, January 30 at 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church of Brevard with Rev. Mike Holder and Rev. Lauren Sims-Salata.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church, 325 N. Broad St. Brevard, NC 28712 or Transylvania Regional Hospital Hospice, 1266 Asheville Hwy., Brevard, NC 28712.

To leave a condolence for the Loftis family please visit "obituaries" at www.moore-fh.com .

Moore Funeral Home & Cremations are caring for the family.