Findley Paul Mahaffey, 88, of Wartrace, passed away May 23, 2026, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
Funeral services will be held 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 26, at Hillcrest Funeral Home with Jeff Collet officiating. Burial will follow at Hollywood Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 12:00 P.M.
Findley was born March 23, 1938, to Arthur Herman and Nelle Margaret Mahaffey. He had eight brothers and sisters, with two surviving, Donna (Art) Sharp of Texas and Robert (Paulette) Mahaffey of Indiana.
Findley married; he, had two daughters, Margaret Molencupp and Paula (Paul) Johnson which blessed him with five amazing grandchildren, Christopher, Charlene, Jonny, Jeramy and Isabella who then gave him nine great grandchildren.
Findley lived a hard but happy life. He worked at his family's garbage company in Blackoak, Indiana. He worked as a heavy equipment operator in Chicago, Illinois before he and his wife won the Illinois State Lotto in 1983.
He retired from his job, took his family on a summer vacation from Chicago to Mexico and all over the United States. After which he bought his own semi-truck and drove over the road for himself for the next couple of years.
Findley then married his late wife, Nell Powell and moved to Tennessee where he gained step-children and grandchildren-one of whom became like his son, Brent Walker (Laura) of Wartrace.
He enjoyed fishing, hunting, working on his tractors and working on his farm. He especially loved his buffalo, cows, horses, mule, ostriches, emus and other numerous animals.
Findley lived his life to the fullest. He made his dreams come true by his hard work and dedication. He never stopped until he got what he wanted or needed. Many people knew Findley's friendship. He gave to all he could and never knew a stranger. He was always quick to tell a joke and shake someone's hand. Although we will miss him with every breath, he is now able to rest with his Nell and family that are waiting for him in Heaven.
Hillcrest Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
