Obituary
Charles Edward “Gabbo” Kellum- 81 , was born April 1, 1935 and passed peacefully at Sylvia’s Hospice House, Ocala, FL on September 9, 2016 after an extended illness. Best known to his family as “Gabbo”, he is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, June; son Christopher (Joy) Kellum, Anthony; daughter Tammy (Terry) Tatom, Orlando; daughter Tina (Marc) Fahey, Ocala; five beautiful grandchildren – Daniel (Kimberly) Fahey, Brian Fahey, Zachary (Natasha) Tatom-Drake, Allison Fahey, Drake Charles Kellum; one precious great-grandson Ash Parker Fahey; two sisters Eva Davis, Athens, AL, Betty Sulcer, Milton; and many more cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased in death by his parents, Boyd and J. Elizabeth Kellum, four sisters and three brothers.
After leaving the Air Force in 1958, Charles settled in South Dade County, Florida and worked as a Deputy with the Miami – Dade Sheriff’s Department for 13 years. Later he built and ran a large successful lawn and landscaping company in the area. In 1988, he and June realized a long held dream and retired to Anthony. There they built a beautiful country home and life , filling their days creating wonderful memories with their grandkids. To “Gabbo”, family was everything, and these strong values which he instilled will carry on for generations.
Charles was a humble man of true charisma. A master story-teller, he was quick witted, genuine and caring. He was a Christian man who read the Bible most nights of his last ten years. All who were blessed to know him will forever hold him in their hearts.
Charles was fortunate to have enjoyed good health until the final year of his life, allowing him to do the things he enjoyed most, especially doing ‘cowboy stuff”. He was a life well lived.
In honoring Charles’ wishes, there will be no memorial service. Interment of his ashes will take place at a later date. A gathering celebrating Charles’ life will take place at their home in Anthony, Saturday, September 17, 2016 at 1 pm. All wishing to pay their respects are welcome to attend.
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