John C. Artley, USAF (Retired)
June 19, 1934 – February 03, 2016

AURORA, N.C. – John C. Artley, 81, of Aurora, passed away Wednesday (Feb. 3, 2016).

Born in Bradford, Pa., he was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Jane Artley, and also his son, John Artley.

John graduated from Bradford High School in 1952 and attended Penn State University. After college, he enlisted in the Air Force Aviation Cadet Program, where he was commissioned as an officer and received his wings as an Air Force pilot. John was a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he earned numerous medals, including the Air Medal. He retired after 20 years of military service to his country and then went to work as a FAA air traffic controller for 10 years. Upon retiring, he moved to Aurora, where he was involved with various classic car organizations and frequented area military air shows.

John, and his wife, Heidi, dedicated themselves to the rescue of homeless cats.

He is survived by his wife, Heidi, of Aurora; four sons, Jeffery Artley, James Artley, Gregory Artley and Michael Artley; and a daughter, Anne Artley, all of whom reside in the Seattle/Tacoma, Wash., area. He also leaves a brother, Dike Artley of Cary; and two grandchildren.

John was known for his warmhearted and caring personality – “he never met a stranger.”

A ‘Celebration of Life’ gathering is being planned for April.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Cotten Funeral Home, New Bern.