CARL CHEATHAM

1935 - 2021

CARL
CHEATHAM, 86

WINTER HAVEN - As Winter Haven's longtime city manager, Carl Cheatham was well-respected and loved by his community. At 86 years old, the Polk County native died February 19, 2021 in Winter Haven after prolonged illness.
Born in Frostproof on February 14, 1935, Carl was raised on military bases where his stepfather served in the U.S. Air Force. He lived in Germany during the Cold War and enjoyed recounting stories and fond memories of his time there. He developed a love for aviation, woodworking, photography, and art. Carl proudly received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Alabama, and his master's degree from the University of South Florida in public administration. He worked his way up in the Lake Wales government and became city manager before heading to Anniston Alabama to serve as city manager for 12 years. In 1987 he was recruited to Winter Haven and served as the city manager for 13 years, overseeing a critical period of growth for Winter Haven until his retirement in 2000.
Carl's first marriage to Barbara Lamb Cheatham produced a son, Robert (Bob) Carl Cheatham Jr. A second marriage later in life to Kathy Hart Cheatham brought another son, Casey Cheatham. His greatest pleasure in life was his family, and was especially proud to witness both sons graduate from college.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents James and Mabel Hester, birth father Milton Cheatham, and granddaughter Brittany Cheatham.
He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sons Bob Cheatham (Jill) and Casey Cheatham, two grandchildren Blair Cheatham and Kristyn Stackpole (Ryan), and two great grandchildren Peyton and Paisley Stackpole.
He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven, where a Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, March 7, 2021 at 3 o'clock.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven.