Edward "Ed" Gumphrey

SHELBY- Edward Peter Gumphrey Jr, "Chip", age 76, passed away in his home in Shelby, NC on Friday, March 7, 2025. Ed was a retired Chief Warrant Officer, United States Navy. He was also a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, and a friend to so many.

Named after his father, he was born in Washington, DC on July 31,1948 as the son of an Air Force officer. He attended Culver Military Academy and later Clemson University before he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served for an honorable 20 years. His assignments took him and his young family all over the country and internationally before his retirement in 1988. Following his retirement, he worked as a project manager for defense-related ship building programs. Upon his retirement in 2014, he and his wife relocated to Shelby, where he enjoyed the beauty of the Carolinas, the warmth of the community, and the quiet pace of life in his final years.

Ed was an avid model railroader who appreciated the camaraderie of the local and regional model railroading communities in Cleveland County and North Carolina. He had a passion for acquiring old project cars, general handyman projects, solving puzzles, and maintaining reign as the family champion of Scrabble. His wit and wisdom influenced so many people.

Most importantly, he was a wonderful husband, father, brother, and grandfather to all of us, forever loyal and committed to taking care of the family. He was bright and witty, firm yet supportive, and a genuinely good man. Mr. Gumphrey made his mark in this world, impacted thousands of lives, and will be incredibly missed. He leaves behind his wife of 56 years, 5 children with 3 children-in-law, 10 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, 2 siblings, 2 brothers-in law, and a sister-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents and his young granddaughter.

His life will be memorialized on Saturday, March 15th with full military honors. The viewing will take place at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home, 10:00 am, with service to follow at 11:00 am. As Ed preferred a more casual dressing and appearance, attendees at his service are welcome to dress as they please. The family encourages donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to his memorial fund at the link below.

https://www.tmcfunding.com/funds/st-jude-s-memorials-for-edward-gumphery-jr-/12803/