James Muckenfuss Obituary

James Wesley Muckenfuss "Wes"

GREENSBORO, NC - James Wesley "Wes" Muckenfuss passed away on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at age 85, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Babs Muckenfuss; his daughter Lisa Hairr (husband John) of Charlotte, NC; and his son Jim of Atlanta, GA. Wes was a proud grandfather to Carson Hairr, who he considered his best friend and the light of his life.
Wes was born in Greenville, SC to Charles H. and Charlotte O. Muckenfuss. Wes was predeceased by his sisters, Chartee Plyler and Laura Muckenfuss. He is survived by his sister, Melissa, and her husband, Paul Stroup, of Charlotte, NC; and his brother-in-law, Jim Plyler of Greensboro, NC.
Wes attended Aiken High School in Aiken, South Carolina and was a 1962 graduate of Clemson University where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Zeta. For 40 years, Wes worked throughout the southeastern United States, as well as Mexico, Ireland and India, with Burlington Industries. Wes loved his work and the many life-long friends he developed during his time with Burlington.
Wes was a proud member of the German Friendly Society in Charleston, the Aiken Historical Society, Hitchcock Woods Foundation and the South Carolina Historical Society. Wes was an active supporter of the James and Mary Oswald Distinguished Writers Series at the University of South Carolina Aiken.
Wes was an adventurous soul who enjoyed traveling, sailing, telling stories, and making friends wherever he went. One of his favorite activities in recent years was working on an archaeological dig at the Topper Site near the Savannah River in Allendale County, SC. He loved keeping up with his network of friends he developed throughout the years and will be remembered for helping his family and friends even while he was sick. He loved restoring antique furniture, attending the Masters and teaching his grandson, Carson, about archeology, adventurers, music and the world.
We would like to thank Dr. Sherrill and the entire team at Drawbridge for their wonderful care of Wes during the last few years.
A graveside celebration of life for family and close friends will be held on May 10 at 1 p.m. at St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church in Aiken, SC. To honor Wes, please call or connect with an old friend today.