Harold Edwin "Ed" Hafley, age 73, of Athens, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 12, 2026. He was born on December 24, 1952.

Ed was an avid outdoorsman who especially enjoyed trout fishing along the Tellico River. Before his retirement, he also enjoyed riding motorcycles and horseback riding with his friends. Above all, Ed cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, who were truly his pride and joy.

Ed worked for many years at the M&M Mars Candy Factory in Cleveland, Tennessee, before retiring.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Katherine Conner Hafley; his daughter, Lacey Nicole Hafley; sisters, Patsy Running and Martha Kirkland; and grandparents, Beatrice and Paul Lloyd Conner.

Those left to cherish his memory include Cynthia Hafley; sons, Adam Hafley (Micayla) and Tyler Hafley; granddaughters, Lexi Rzeplinski (Koby), Dailyn Palmer (Josh), Hailey Hafley, Kinsley Hafley, Mackenzie Hafley, and Hannah Hafley; great-grandchildren, Kaycen Conley, Everleigh Rzeplinski, and Oaklynn Rzeplinski; and sister, Peggy Hafley Decker Burns.

Ed will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his memory will live on through the many lives he touched and, most especially, through the grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him so much joy.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Hospice of Chattanooga, especially Whitney Curtis, for the great care shown towards Ed. They would also like to thank two other special caretakers, Elaine Watson and Kansas Evans. 

There are no formal services being held currently. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service of Athens is honored to be entrusted with assisting the family during this time.