Jeter Lee “Buddy” McMahan, age 74, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 24th, 2025, at home, surrounded by his loving family. A native of Yancey County, he was the only son of the late Carl and RubyMcMahan. He was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law: Dennis Hall, Odis, Norman, and Wayne Robinson, Ray Fender and a sister-in-law, Erma Fender Presnell.
Buddy was a lifelong resident of the South Toe River Valley Community, and a friend and neighbor to all he met. He married Carolyn Robinson, the love of his life, on May 17 th of 1968 and built their life together on a foundation of faith in the Lord. Buddy was a dedicated member and deacon of Double Island Baptist Church. He was a simple man who loved his Lord, his family, friends, community, and his church. Buddy was an “encourager” who always saw the glass half full and never half empty. He faced every challenge in life with admirable strength and courage. He had a compassionate heart and was always helping others.
In the early 1970s Buddy began working in the shrubbery business. He later owned and operated McMahan Nursery along with his son, Gary, and devoted employee, Gabriel Onchi. Buddy traveled all over the east coast selling boxwoods and shrubbery, and he rarely ever met a stranger. Early in life, he learned the importance of hard work and he instilled that same work ethic in his children. He was an excellent provider who knew the perfect balance of work and family time. He lived his life with enthusiasm, kindness, and joy.
Buddy was an avid hunter who enjoyed many years of bear, coon, and deer hunting with Gary and their hunting buddies. He loved camping and fishing at Lake Santeetlah in Robbinsville, NC, where he made many years of memories with his family and friends. His infectious smile and laugh will be remembered by all! He was a true people person and a role model for his children, family, and community!
Buddy is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 57 years, Carolyn Robinson McMahan; daughter, Carla McMahan and fiancé Curtis Wilson; son, Gary McMahan and wife Gina; a special niece, Angie Murphy and husband Marty; his “like a son,” Gabriel Onchi and wife Griselda. He is also survived by two sisters, Linda Hall and Betty Blevins, of Marion, NC; brothers-in-law, Douglas (Bogan) Robinson and wife Janie, and Jerry Robinson of Marion; and sisters-in-law, Debra Lewis and husband Scot, of Marion, and Phyllis Robinson of Old Fort. Several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends also survive.
Funeral services will begin with visitation from 12:30 until 2:30 p.m. on Friday, May 30th, followed by the funeral service at 2:30 p.m. at Double Island Baptist Church. His pastor, Rev. Rick Woody, and Rev. Kenneth Forbes will officiate. Burial will follow in the Ballew Cemetery off Seven Mile Ridge Road.
The family extends their sincere appreciation to Compassionate Care WNC for their excellent care of Buddy over the last several weeks. Much love and appreciation are also extended to his special caregivers, Rhoda Riddle, Vickie Young, and Jennifer Blevins (niece).
Memorial donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607, or Compassionate Care WNC, 856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville, NC 28714.
Online condolences may be sent to www.yanceyfuneralservice.com
