Obituary: Gary K. Coffey

Submitted by Greta Smith   

Gary K. Coffey, a cherished family man and dedicated community member, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025 at the age of 80. Born on February 22, 1945 in Scottsburg, Indiana, Gary lived a life rich in love, laughter and service to others. He believed in making the world a better place and he practiced what he preached in many ways.

Gary was born to Talmadge and Estelle Teagarden Coffey. Throughout high school, he spent most of his time after school working at JayC grocery store.

Gary graduated from Salem High School in 1963 and from United Electronics Institute in Louisville, Kentucky in 1966. Gary began working in 1966 troubleshooting TV’s and Radios at Travelers in Orleans, Indiana. He retired from WLKY-TV and from the media business in 2007. After retirement Gary worked with renovating and renting houses in Salem, Indiana.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Claudia Barnard Coffey, and his adopted daughter, Greta Baker Smith and grandchildren, Noah (Charity) Baker and Nick Baker. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who loved him very much. Gary and Claudia Coffey worked their way into success and whenever possible, gave back to the Washington County community. Together, the couple continually fostered a deep commitment to make our community a better place.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Talmadge and Estelle Coffey.

A funeral mass will be held Wednesday, April 30 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 208 Shelby Street, Salem, Indiana 47167. Burial will follow in St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 29 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Weathers Funeral Home, 106 S. Shelby Street, Salem, Indiana 47167

Donations in Gary’s memory can be made to the Washington County Community Foundation.

Weathers Funeral Home will be entrusted with funeral care.

www.weathersfuneralhome.com