Obituary published on Legacy.com by Spring Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery - Nashville on Nov. 4, 2025.
"When life breaks you, it is because you are ready to be put back together differently."
Chuck began his journey in
Nashville, Tennessee, growing into a man known for being loyal, compassionate, organized, hardworking, and curious. Friends and family saw these traits every day and often repeated his own summary of himself: pure-hearted husband and father, tremendous leader, and devoted friend.
Service was a calling Chuck embraced early on. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, later dedicating himself to protecting communities as a police officer in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, and Hillview, Kentucky. His commitment to brotherhood extended beyond the badge, as he became an active mason with the Mt. Juliet lodge. Eventually, his passion for flight led him to pursue a career in aviation, where he found joy and purpose as a pilot. His steady leadership and generous heart made an impact that will last well beyond his years.
Away from duty, Chuck's world was filled with travel, games, sports, music, outdoor adventures, and cooking. He cheered on Titans and Tennessee Vols football, flew airplanes for the sheer joy of it, strummed country tunes on his guitar, and savored a good glass of bourbon. Smoking meats- all year long on his trusty smoker-was his signature hobby. Chuck leaves us the simple lesson that devotion to family, service, and honest fun can shape a life well lived.
Family time with Chuck was filled with spirited rounds of Aggravation, sun-soaked beach vacations shared with close friends, and the comforting aroma of holiday meals prepared on his beloved grill or smoker. His perfectly smoked Thanksgiving turkey became a cherished tradition. These gatherings were always rich with laughter and the steady warmth Chuck brought to every moment. His gift for storytelling added a special touch, making each occasion unforgettable.
Chuck faced pancreatic cancer with the same strength that marked his life, meeting each day head-on. Even in illness he kept leading, loving, and encouraging those around him. His passing in Louisville, Kentucky, closes a chapter yet leaves a clear example of courage.
Today we celebrate the beautiful life he lived, honoring his service, his passions, and every moment he gave to others. May we carry forward his favorite motto and keep putting the pieces of life together in new and better ways, just as Chuck always did.
Those who have passed on before him are father, Charles Edward McWhirter, and brother, Randy McWhirter.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are wife of 5 years, Leslie McWhirter, daughter, Kansas McWhirter, mother, Donna McWhirter, sisters, Debbie (Mark) Cook and Rena Lomonica, his beloved service dog, Nash, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and Marine Corp brothers too numerous to name.
Arrangements entrusted to Spring Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5110 Gallatin Pike,
Nashville, TN 37216, 615-865-1101, https://www.springhillfh.com.