Fleetwood “Fleet” Gaddy, age 67, of Asheville, went Home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. He was a son of the late Hugh Gaddy and Betty Rogers Daramus. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Mike Gaddy.
Fleet was known by all as a man full of joy, conversation, and kindness. He could talk to anyone for hours, never meeting a stranger, and his cheerful spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path. Often described as “the happiest man alive,” Fleet carried a joy that wasn’t dependent on circumstance – it simply came from within.
Even in the face of health challenges, Fleet remained remarkably content. He never complained, never let it dim his light, and instead met every day with peace and gratitude. His selflessness was unmatched; he constantly put others before himself, always more concerned about how you were doing than what he was facing.
Anyone who visited Fleet was sure to be welcomed with a smile, a warm seat, and an offer of food and drink, usually more than once. His generosity and hospitality were genuine and deeply rooted in who he was.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 23 years, Penny Burnette Gaddy; son, Travis Smith (Sarah) and their children: Hannah and Autumn Smith, all of Burnsville; sister, Joan Garrett (Tony) of Charlotte; nieces and nephews: Redd Redmond, Jackson Garrett (Ashley), Jordon Garrett and Cameron Garrett; two great-nieces: Kennedy Garrett and Kali Garrett; along with his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Norma and Ray Burnette; and good friends: Terry and Mona Moore, Angela Henderson, and Annette Parker. Several other extended family also survive.
The family will receive friends from 3 until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15, at Yancey Funeral Services. Following the visitation, the family will go in procession to the Eddie McMahan Cemetery in Pensacola for graveside services. Josh Hoyle will officiate. Pallbearers will be: Jackson, Cameron, Jordon and Tony Garrett, Terry Moore and Ron Rogers.
Fleet’s presence was a gift. He made life better just by being in it. Though he will be dearly missed, his legacy of joy, compassion, and unwavering positivity, will continue to shine through the lives of those he touched. To send online condolences to the family, please visit www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
