Darrell Chip Caffrey

Darrell Mead “Chip” Caffrey, Jr. of Omaha Arkansas departed this life Wednesday, September 4, at the age of 66. He was born July 12, 1953 to Darrell Caffrey Sr. & Dorothy (Grell) Caffrey.

Chip was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Wayne Reed, maternal grandparents Walter & Milly Grell, paternal grandparents Virgil &  Mabel Caffrey, and paternal step-grandmother Mildred Caffrey. He is survived by his sister Kathleen “Kay” Reed and fiancé Doug Gustafson of Omaha. Nephews Dwayne Reed & wife Carrie and Chad Reed & wife Susie all of Omaha. Great nephews Bryce Reed, Cole Reed, and Brett Reed and great niece Shelby Reed.

Chip graduated from Alpena High School in 1971. He attended his beloved University of Arkansas, and then joined the US Army as a medic.  He loved serving our country, and planned to make a career within the Army; however, due to an injury, he received an honorable discharge. He attended and graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio. After graduation, the US Government immediately hired him, and sent him to postgraduate school at the School of Engineering and Logistics in Hooks, Texas.  After graduation, he was moved to Alabama to work for Redstone Arsenal. He worked in several project offices ranging from aviation to missiles as a Logistics Specialist.  He was honored to be the recipient of numerous awards throughout his 30-year career with the US Government before retiring and moving back home to Arkansas. 

When Chip was younger, he enjoyed fishing, camping and motocross.  His love for Razorback football was huge in his life.  He was an avid reader; loved history; enjoyed movies; loved music and played the guitar while relaxing around a campfire.  He was well known for his cooking, especially smoking or grilling in his Big Green Egg.  He loved going on motorcycle rides on off beaten country roads.  He loved the beauty of the Ozark Mountains.  In fact, he always referred to the Ozarks as “God’s Country”.  Chip loved his pets, and they brought him much love and joy.  Chip was known for being a laid back, kind-hearted guy with a goofy sense of humor.  He dealt with chronic pain later in life and endured much; however, one thing remained constant throughout his life—Chip had such a good heart, loved his true family, and loved the Lord. 

Celebration of life services will be at 10:00 AM. Saturday, September 14th, 2019 at Smith Family Funeral home in Green Forest with Joey Kelley officiating. Interment will follow at the Farewell Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday evening from 5-7 PM. at the funeral home.

On line condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhome.net

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