Troy Allen McMahan

Troy Allen McMahan, 88, passed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Sunday, March 1, 2026 with his loving family by his side. He was a native and lifelong resident of Jackson County, the tenth of eleven children born to Lawrence and Susie Cook McMahan. In addition to his parents, eight of his siblings preceded him in death.

Troy worked at Dayco for thirty years before his retirement. A faithful servant of the Lord, he was a member of Ochre Hill Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and choir member until his declining health.

Troy was a true outdoorsman at heart. He took great pride in his lawn, finding a quiet joy and satisfaction in the steady hum of his mower and the sight of a well-kept yard. His love for growing flowers was a testament to his gentle spirit. He nurtured his flower garden with the same care and devotion he gave to everything and everyone he loved.

Troy is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jean Ray McMahan. He also leaves behind four daughters - Pam Hyatt (Ann) of Concord, Cindy Ensley (Bailey), Lisa McMahan (Tim), and Becky Hunter all of Sylva.

He also leaves behind nine grandchildren - Leann Wheatley (Michael) of Sylva, Jennifer Clarke (Kara) of Concord, Emily Stephens (Laramie) of Sylva, Ashley Coggins (Carmen) of Concord, Logan Ensley (Kayla) of Sylva, Jamie Hyatt (Sam) of China Grove, and Dillon Hunter (Graydon) of Sylva.

Great-grandchildren - Gage and Gunner Wheatley of Sylva, Bowen and Beckett Clarke of Concord, Cameron and Chase Stephens of Sylva, Liam and Livi Coggins of Concord, Roan Hyatt of Concord, Wade Ensley of Sylva, and Sanders and Macy Hunter of Sylva.

Siblings – LC McMahan of Sylva and Alice Henson (Reed) of Franklin.

Troy also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews along with two cherished friends, Billy Hyatt and Kym Parker. His wisdom, gentle kindness, and steadfast presence extended far beyond his own home, earning him the honor of being a father figure to many whose lives were shaped by knowing him.

Throughout his life, Troy was his family's greatest champion — cheering from the sidelines at countless sporting events for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He cherished every family gathering as a treasure, filling each room with laughter and a love that wrapped around everyone. His unwavering support and unconditional love were gifts he gave freely and without reservation, making certain that each person he held dear never went a single day without hearing — and feeling — just how much they were loved.

Daddy, you were our hero and our forever role model. Thank you for your endless love and guidance.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026 from 4-6pm at Appalachian Funeral Services in Sylva.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held for family and friends in “The Bottom,” the field below the family home on Friday, March 6, 2026 beginning at 2 pm.