Mahaffey’s name is sometimes shown with the title Professor,
indicating he was probably a teacher. From around 1877–82, he edited and published a monthly called The Musical Advocate in Altoona, Pennsylvania.
His works include:
- Precious Jewels, with J. H. Leslie (New York & Altoona, Pennsylvania: C. M. Cady & R. B. Mahaffey, 1878)
- Progress, with J. H. Leslie (Altoona, Pennsylvania: R. B. Mahaffey, 1879)
- Sabbath Carols (Altoona, Pennsylvania: R. B. Mahaffey, 1881)