City public works boss dies suddenly

City of Gaffney Public Works Director Sanford "Sanny" Wolfe Jr. will be remembered as a dedicated employee with a one-of-a-kind singing voice.

Wolfe, 64, died unexpectedly at his residence Friday.

"He was a great supervisor," Gaffney City Councilman Tom Reid said. "He got the job done. You could depend on him."

Reid said he made a work request to Wolfe last Thursday and the task was completed less than 24 hours later.

"I was out of town for a day and when I got back it was already finished," Reid said.

Wolfe also loved to sing.

"He had a beautiful voice," Reid said.

Wolfe was a member of the Barbershop Harmony Society for 39 years. He also sang lead in the Upper Echelon Barbershop Quartet and served as music director for 21 years at Limestone Street United Methodist Church.

Councilman Bernard Smith said Wolfe took an interest in his workers.

"He also wanted them to have the best equipment, so it would make it easier on them," Smith said. "He was one of those guys who took his work seriously."

Wolfe was a graduate of Gaffney High and attended Clemson University.

"He loved Gaffney," Gaffney Mayor Henry Jolly said. "We not only lost a dedicated employee, but we all lost a friend. He will be hard to replace."

The funeral service will be held today at 4 p.m. at Buford Street United Methodist Church.

The complete obituary appears on Page 8.