Grover “Allen” Gaddy, 68, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Allen was born on March 25, 1958, to his biological mother, Mary Ellen, and his biological father, Grover Lee Gaddy. He was raised by the father he knew and loved, Torrence E. Dulaney, who was his dad in every way that mattered.
Allen was a one-of-a-kind man. When he was able, he was hell on wheels and straight redneck, and he wouldn’t have had it any other way. He loved hunting, fishing, working on cars, and being outdoors. He worked in commercial heating and cooling for more than 30 years, where he built a life through hard work and determination.
But more than anything, Allen was a father and a Pawpaw.
He was funny, stubborn, hardworking, kind, loving, and compassionate. He had a way of helping people and making room for those who needed him. His family extended far beyond those who shared his last name. In addition to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Grover helped raise many others throughout his life. The impact he had on those children and families will continue long after his passing.
Allen is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Lynn Gaddy, and his eight children: Tia “Dee,” Bobby “Dee,” Brandi “Dee,” Billy “Dee,” Kenneth “Dee,” Sumer “Judy,” Austin “Dee,” and Kristine “Judy.” He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, along with many more children and loved ones whose lives he helped shape.
He is also survived by one brother, Johnny Gaddy along with countless extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
Allen was preceded in death by his parents, **Mary Ellen and Grover Lee Gaddy; Torrence E. Dulaney, the father who raised him; his sisters; his ex-wife, Mary “Dee” Whigham; and his great grandson, Lorenzo Gaddy.
**There will be no formal funeral service, as Allen’s family has chosen to honor his memory privately.
Allen may be gone from this world, but the pieces of him that he left behind will live on—in his children, his grandchildren, his great-grandchildren, and in all the people he loved, helped, raised, and touched throughout his life.
