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BORN
1956
DIED
2022
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Charles Zelley Obituary
Charles Lawrence James Zelley
NASHVILLE, TN - Charles Lawrence James Zelley, 66 (known to his friends as "Jazz") passed away unexpectedly on November 14, 2022 at his home in Nashville, TN.
Jim was well known for his love of acting. He did many community theater productions over the years in WI, FL and TN, and had a small part in the movie Bad Boys 2 that he was very proud of. His Facebook page is flooded with praise for his acting in so many different roles. He could bring characters to life for the audience whether it be a downtrodden salesman, a cowboy or dancing with another man on stage in his underwear.
There is disbelief that he is gone, overwhelming love and sadness at his passing. His art was his other passion. His love of Native American culture and nature was prevalent in his paintings. He incorporated his love of creating into his work with Gary Musick Productions where he worked on set designs as a master carpenter.
His friends and family were his greatest love. Jim is survived by four sisters: Ann (Denny) Graves, Jody (Bobbie) Hines, Sandy Purdy (Jim Nagel) and Kathy Manske; many nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; his much loved kitties and his "adopted" Nashville family. Jim's personality made him well loved by many friends and his passing leaves a hole in many hearts. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother and his special life partner, Denise Schmidt, whom he missed terribly.
Hermitage Funeral Home in Old Hickory TN is handling final arrangements in Nashville, and a Celebration of Life will be held in Tomah at a later date.
Memories and Condolences
for Charles Zelley
Sponsored by Hermitage Funeral Home.
6 Entries
Clint Rose
December 3, 2024
I remember him asking me (Why do people bring food for you after a death in the family.) You don't want to eat; I could not answer. He had just lost his mother.
Clint Rose
April 9, 2024
I haven't been back to Wisconsin in years. Found out now Jim Had passed. Went to October fest in Lacrosse Wisconsin years ago. I played a millionaire and Jim was my Attorney. The stories we had.
Annemarie Picerno
November 18, 2022
Here's James in Oliver Twist (Osceola Center for the Arts) around 1991. I was in that show with him and we became great friends in Orlando then we both migrated to Nashville years later and were neighbors. I am glad I got to speak with him and reminisce just recently before he passed. He had a wealth of entertainment history and was loved by many. Rest in peace my friend.
Annemarie Picerno
Janis
November 18, 2022
I have many great memories of good times spent with Jazz during our theater years in Orlando. My wish for all who love him is to find comfort and peace in those moments when you hold him in your heart. RIP, old chum!
HATEM HABASHI
November 17, 2022
I met him a few times working on a show as the lighting designer. He was funny and honest. A good man. May he rest in peace.
Barbara Blake
November 17, 2022
To Jazz´ family and friends,
Jazz was one of the most caring people I knew. I shared stages with him as an actor and one couldn´t wish for a better partner onstage. He was a wonderful actor and even better scene partner - sharing the stage with you and making you look better. He will be sorely missed! Luv ya!
Barbara
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