Obituary for Horace Gene Beaver

Horace Gene Beaver, of Hayesville, NC, formerly of Candler, NC passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025, following a short illness.

Gene was born in Candler, NC on September 13, 1938, and spent his working years as a salesman before retiring from the trucking industry. Approximately twenty years ago, he and wife relocated to Hayesville, where they built a life centered on family, music and community.

He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1961 and was a longtime member of Ben Smather's Stony Mountain Cloggers. Known for his joyful spirit and love of traditional mountain dance, Gene could still dance in lively jig well into his later years.

Gene is survived by his daughter, Tina Garren (Steve); his sons, Kevin Beaver (Leigh) and Jeff Beaver (Shicketha); grandchildren, Lee Ponder, Erin Jones and her children, Liam and Isla, Summer Godfrey, Anna Beaver, and Courtney Beaver.

Gene will be remembered for his strong work ethic, patriotic service, love for music and dance, and deep devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

A graveside funeral service will be held at a later date at the North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Swannanoa.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.