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Charles McGathy Obituary
Charles Leroy McGathy,, Capt. USN was born in Gadsden, Alabama on August 3, 1930 and was active in the Boy Scouts earning the rank of Eagle Scout with 12 Palms in March 1945. He attended Kent State University, Kent, Ohio. The U.S.N. Post Graduate School, Monterey, CA and earned a Masters Degree in International Affairs at the Naval War College, Newport, RI. He retired as a Captain in the Navy after serving 30 years where he was a decorated aviator with 5500 flight hours and 535 carrier landings to his credit. Upon retiring from the Navy, Chuck moved to Gainesville to start the NROTC program at Gainesville High School. He taught for 10 years.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Valeria, his only child, Heather and her husband Roger Hensley, of Seven Lakes, North Carolina, two grandchildren, Hannah and Chuck.
Family and Friends are invited to a Memorial Service for a celebration of his life on Saturday, December 15, 2007 from 11:00-1:00 pm at the Gainesville Country Club. 7300 SW 35th Way, Gainesville, FL 32608. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Veteran's of Foreign Wars, 1150 N.E. Waldo Rd, Gainesville, FL 32641.
Arrangements are under the care of FOREST MEADOWS FUNERAL HOME, 352-378-2528.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Charles McGathy
6 Entries
Tuan Nguyen
November 3, 2023
I graduated from Gainesville High School in June 1986. I was in the NJROTC program for all 4 years of high school. Capt McGathy was a huge influence for me. I learned so much about Naval History, traditions and respect. Ultimately I joined the Navy 2 weeks after graduation from GHS. I served 12 years as a Hospital Corpsman and I am so blessed to have learned so much from Capt McGathy and Senior Chief Lyle. Captain, I salute you and God bless!
Jim Gilkison
April 7, 2021
I was one of Capt McGathy students at GHS 1981-1985. I can honestly say that Capt McGathy had more of an influence on my life than any other man except my grandfather. His experiences in the navy and his style of teaching still has an influence on my life to this day. I remember vividly being dressed down by the Capt on the parade field during drills because I was having a difficult time calling out the left oblique command at the correct time. From that day till this one, I never wanted to disappoint him ever again. God bless you Capt McGathy and all who knew ans loved you.
Jim Gilkison
GHS NJROTC 81-85
Charles P. McGathy
January 26, 2008
My dad Pinkney McGathy (deceased) told me that I was related to a Charles McGathy who was a Navy Captain. Dad was born in Gasden as well. I too am a retired Naval Officer (chaplain) and lived in Gainesville (UF grad- '79). Now I pastor First Baptist Church of Madison, North Carolina.
I am sorry I never had a chance to meet the other Charles McGathy. I think we would have had much in common, including our names.
Robert Kison
December 19, 2007
Captain McGathy was in VA-65 (Fist of the Fleet)and attended our first reunion in'96. He is in the lineage of the oldest attack squadron in the navy and will be greatly missed.
Robert D. Kison
President
Fist of the Fleet Association, Inc
www.fistofthefleet.org
President
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Diane Martin Stang for Bill Martin of Gadsden, Alabama
December 13, 2007
My dad, Bill Martin and Chuck McGathy grew up together and have a lifetime of wonderful memories that I have always enjoyed hearing about. Their friendship began in the first grade over 70 years ago. I know my dad wishes he could attend Chuck's memorial service, but unfortunately is not able to. For Valeria and Heather, please know that Bill Martin is so, so sorry for your loss.
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