Gary Franklin Deffenbaugh

Long-time Anna Maria Island resident and former Mayor, Gary Franklin Deffenbaugh, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2021, in Bryson City, North Carolina.  Gary was born in Sandusky, Ohio, on June 30, 1938, to parents James and Wilma Deffenbaugh.

He attended Northwestern University and was a veteran of the United States Navy serving in naval intelligence during the Cold War.  Gary also had a career in law enforcement that spanned 25 years.  He served with the Mentor, Ohio; Longboat Key, Florida; and Anna Maria, Florida, Police Departments. He received numerous certifications and was an expert in accident reconstruction.

After Gary’s 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 Volunteer Fire Department, several as captain. Gary 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.

Gary loved spending time in Bryson City, North Carolina. Gary was involved in the communities he lived and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Gary is survived by his wife, Elaine, of 45 years, his sons Gary W Deffenbaugh of Anna Maria, Florida, and Michael L Deffenbaugh (daughter-in-law, Annette and granddaughter, Madison) of Wilmington, North Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Deborah Lowery and son Christopher Deffenbaugh of Bradenton, Florida.

A private service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Harris Palliative Care and Hospice, 81 Medical Park Loop, Suite 203, Sylva, North Carolina 28779.