Gary Franklin Deffenbaugh
Gary Franklin Deffenbaugh, longtime Anna Maria resident and former Anna Maria mayor 2000-02, died Dec. 26, 2021, at his summer home in Bryson City, North Carolina.
He was born in Sandusky, Ohio, June 30, 1938, to James and Wilma.
He attended Northwestern University and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving in naval intelligence during the Cold War.
He also had a career in law enforcement that spanned 25 years.
He served law enforcement in Mentor, Ohio; Longboat Key and Anna Maria.
He received numerous certifications and was an expert in accident reconstruction.
After ending his law enforcement career, he owned and operated Island Lock and Key in Anna Maria.
He was a lifetime member of the Fraternal Order of Police, the Associated Locksmiths of America, and served many years as a volunteer with the Anna Maria Fire Department, several of them as captain.
He was elected mayor of Anna Maria in 2000, serving one term. He brought a business approach to politics and was an ardent supporter of small business.
He also loved spending time in Bryson City and was involved in the community there as well. He was always willing to lend a helping hand.
A private service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to Harris Palliative Care and Hospice, 81 Medical Park Loop, Suite 203, Sylva, N.C. 28779.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Elaine; sons Gary W. of Anna Maria and Michael L. and wife Annette of Wilmington, North Carolina; and granddaughter Madison.