MSgt. Edward Duane McGhghy, USAF(Ret.)

Graveside services honoring his life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM in Elmwood Memorial Park under the direction of Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home.

Edward was born on February 16, 1934, in Stockton, Kansas to the late Eli E. McGhghy and Letitia Sophina (Whittle) McGhghy. He grew up on a farm and enjoyed the adventures that his siblings and cousins had. He enjoyed riding his horse star. He joined the United States Air Force and went on to have a successful and honorable career spanning almost 21 years. He wrote electronic manuals and was an instructor while in the Air Force. His military career took him to Greenland, North Dakota, Mississippi, Florida, Alaska, Germany, Abilene. While stationed at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida met his wife, Owena Austin. Together they traveled as a military family and raised three children. During his civilian life he worked for TIMEX, Crown Cork & Seal Co, and Texas State Technical College in Sweetwater where he was an electronic instructor. In 1993 he and his wife relocated to Sugarland until he moved to Temple.

Edward’s faith was central to his life. He became a Christian in February 1973 while stationed in Germany and remained active in several churches over the years, including Elmcrest Baptist Church, Trinity Baptist Church in Sweetwater, and Second Baptist Church in Houston. An avid reader and lifelong learner, he especially enjoyed Westerns. He and his wife also loved traveling to many destinations and taking cruises. Edward was a loving, devoted father, and “Pops” whose passing marks the close of a life well lived.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Owena McGhghy; his son, Steve Smith; and his siblings, Katherine McGhghy, Arvy McGhghy, Marian Smith Williams, Betty Visness, Ralph McGhghy, and Lois Hill.

Edward is survived by his children, David McGhghy and his wife, Jody; Donna Vogel and her husband, Emanuel; Daniel McGhghy; Katherine McGhghy; and Daniel Smith and his wife, Carol. His surviving grandchildren are Ted Vogel, Duane McGhghy, and David McGhghy. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Reagan Vogel, Brooks Vogel, Austin McGhghy, Chloe McGhghy, Oliver McGhghy, Halle Von Dohlen, and Emily Caputo; and his great-great-grandchildren, Evangeline Caputo and Harrison McGhghy.

The family gratefully acknowledges those who have helped care for their loved one, The William R. Courtney Veterans Home, Heart of Texas Hospice and Amedisys Hospice. Memorial contributions can be made to Samaritan's Purse in his name.