Francis Huntley

G.F. “Francis” Huntley, 84, of 330 Sugar Hollow Road, Fairview, died Saturday, November 5, 2005, at Hospice Solace Center following a period of declining health. Born February 21, 1921, in Henderson County, he was a son of the late Rev. David and Nancy Elizabeth Dotson Huntley of Fairview. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Ottis Huntley of Fairview and Duane Huntley of Mississippi and by two infant brothers. Receiving his early education in Buncombe County, he graduated from Fairview High School in 1939. In the fall of the same year he entered Mars Hill Junior College, graduating in 1941. He gave four years of his life for his country in World War II, having served in the US Air Force in India, Burma, China and the Pacific. He was on the ground crew on the island of Tinian when the Enola Gay took off for Japan. A true American hero. Following the war, he resumed his education at Furman University where he went on to secure both Bachelor and Master of Arts Degrees in Education. He held principalships at Taylors High School (SC), Polkville High School (NC), Rosa Edwards Elementary School (Hendersonville) and AC Reynolds High School (Asheville). In addition, he taught classes in many of these schools and coached athletics. He also held positions in the Superintendent’s office in Buncombe County and Blanton’s College. He was instrumental in obtaining funds for the construction of AC Reynolds, Clyde A. Erwin and Enka High Schools. The world is a much better place because of his kindness, concern and genuine interest in the persons he touched. Mr. Huntley dearly loved his God and placed his life in His grace. He received his pilot’s license in Shelby and enjoyed flying Piper J3s and Cessana 172s. He also enjoyed his yard and beautiful surroundings in his Sugar Hollow home and was always doing something to beautify the grounds. Most of all he enjoyed sharing whatever he had with his family and friends. He gave much, expected little and leaves a genuine legacy. Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Blaine Blankenship Huntley of Fairview; one son, Gerry Huntley and his wife Judy of Taylors, SC; grandson, Bob Huntley of Asheville; great-grandchild, Channing Huntley; two loving sisters, Betty Beard of Asheville and Evelyn Jordan of Fairview. Funeral services will be 2:00 pm Monday in the Patton Avenue chapel of Groce Funeral Home with the Reverend Norris Wright officiating. Burial will follow at Cane Creek Cemetery with military rites conducted by the Buncombe County Veterans Council. His family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00 pm Monday at the funeral home prior to the service and request that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society, 120 Executive Park, Building 1, Asheville, NC 28801.