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Raymond Eugene Charles

March 10, 1949 ~ April 1, 2025

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Raymond Eugene Charles
March 10, 1949 - April 1, 2025

Raymond Eugene Charles, 76, went to his eternal home on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, receiving his final sendoff from the Malcom Randall VA Medical Hospital in Gainesville, Florida.

Born March 10, 1949, in Clearwater, Florida, Raymond was a U.S Coast Guard Veteran. Additionally, he was a man who had many passions and wore many hats throughout his life - most notably as a truck driver, a musician, and a cowboy. Raymond was a man who had staunch convictions and always lived his life the way he wanted, marching to the beat of his own drum and making no apologies along the way. 

Raymond was predeceased by his parents, Laverne “Ernestine” Wood Reader and Charles Flemming “Flem” Charles, and also by his brothers, Gary Ralph Charles and Jesse Neil Charles.

He is survived by one daughter, Sara (John) Zilinsky, and one son, James “Jimmy” Winans; grandchildren Danica Stone and Madeleine Zilinsky; siblings, Lawrence “Roger” Charles, Bruce (Diane) Charles, Bill (Susan) Charles, JD (Joan) Charles, Alma “Ruthie” (William) Lopez, Sister of the Heart Priscilla Stanford; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Per Raymond’s adamant final wishes, no “big fuss” will be made in the way of a formal memorial service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gainesville Fisher House at Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, via https://www.gainesvillefisherhouse.org/

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  1. Raymond always held a special place in my heart. Some of my fondest childhood memories are back when Raymond would come to our house/my Nany's (Aunt Carrie) and he would have his guitar and we would all sit under the oak tree and sing for hours. Always loved to hear him sing and play that guitar…
    He was definitely One of a kind…
    Rest in Peace Raymond🕊
    Always loved you!

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