Obituary of Arthur James McGaffey
McGaffey: Arthur “Art”, age 94, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026 with his family by his side. Arthur was a lifelong resident of Bothwell and a man who lived life on his own terms—full of energy, passion, and a deep love for his family. He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Velma, his daughter Doris Kemp, and his siblings Alan McGaffey, Glen McGaffey, and Barbara Anne Osterhaut.
He will be dearly missed by his loving children Laurie (Roger) Lapointe and Jim McGaffey, and remembered fondly by his sister Betty Horste of Alberta.
Arthur was a proud and devoted grandfather to Tara Fancy(Jeff), Chad Kemp (Michelle), Charity Moniz (Kevin), Josh McGaffey, Andrea Lapointe (Corey), Kyle Lapointe (Tammy), Shelby Kemp, and Bridgette McGaffey.
His legacy continues through his cherished great-grandchildren Jacob, Lucas, Adyson, Kole, Cooper, Emersyn, Aubrey, Maverick, Lyla, Ella, Hailey, and Paiton, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.
Arthur worked as a machine operator with Hydro One and also spent time working on oil rigs, demonstrating a strong work ethic and resilience throughout his career.
Outside of work, Arthur truly embraced life. He loved hunting moose and deer, fishing, and spending time outdoors. Music was a big part of who he was—old country music filled his soul, and he was especially known for his yodeling on stage. He had a need for speed, enjoying go-kart racing, watching NASCAR, and attending races in Buxton and Delaware.
Arthur also found joy in the simple pleasures—taking drives to Thamesville for his favorite scratch tickets and a meal of chicken fingers and fries, a routine he kept up until just two weeks before his passing. He will be remembered for his lively spirit, his love of laughter, and the deep pride he held for his family. Arthur’s presence will be greatly missed, but his memory will live on in the stories, traditions, and love he leaves behind.
The McGaffey family will receive friends at the Badder & Robinson Funeral Home, 211 Elm St., Bothwell on Thursday from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM. The Funeral Service will be held in the chapel on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Interment Bothwell Cemetery. A light lunch will be held at the Bothwell Legion following the service. Donations to Four Counties Health Services Foundation (c/o 1824 Concession Dr, Newbury, ON N0L 1Z0). Online condolences and donations may be left at our website www.badderfuneralhome.com
Those wishing to view Art's Funeral Service are asked to click on the link and register for the Livestream: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=fc2e01c5-3f8d-43b5-82a8-ade5a7a96f66