Charles Cleckley

Charles Cleckley, a lifelong resident of Wewahitchka, Florida went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at the age of 87. He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on January 8, 1935.

He was raised by his grandparents Mossie and Julia Cleckley and Stella “Granny” Tillman from childhood. They all attended Honeyville United Methodist Church. He also raised his children in this small church with so much history. He was a devout Christian and enjoyed singing in the small choir. His message on his answering machine was “God loves you and I am trying” and he really meant it.

Charles served in the United States Army as a mechanic in Germany during the Cold War. He was a very gifted mechanic and enjoyed working on cars. He shared his passion in teaching auto mechanics at Wewahitchka High School for many years until his retirement. His love and commitment for his students changed many lives. After retirement he and his wife, Mrs. Betty have continued to support Wewahitchka students through donations to Gulf Coast State College Scholarships, resulting in many students receiving scholarships every year for over 40 years. Donations were also make directly to the High School Vocational programs for equipment, buildings and other materials.

Charles had a love of reading and just this year, initiated and sponsored a free book program, the Free Library on Wheels, for the elementary school students by donating 3 free books for each Pre K through 6th grade student.

Charles and Betty have supported the community through their time and talents as well, participating in the Voluntary Fire Department and ambulance service. They have also participated silently in many other initiatives for Wewa organizations and families.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, two sisters and a grandson, William Hall.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Cleckley of Wewahitchka, Florida; children Rebecca Hall-Cary (Jim) of Lynn Haven, Florida, Reubin Cleckley of Wewahitchka, grandchildren, Georgia Cleckley and Jacob Hall (Maricris); one great grandson, Liam Hall. As well as adopted children Jose Salas-Vernis of Panama City, Florida; Charlie and Brenda Little of Wewahitchka, Florida.

Charles loved his wife, best friend, and business partner, Betty. His happiest times were when his children, grandchildren and great grandson were there for Sunday dinner after church.

A time of visitation will be held at Honeyville United Methodist Church in Wewahitchka, (4275 South Hwy. 71) from 5:00-7:00 PM Central Time on Friday, November 4, 2022

Funeral Services will be held at Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church in Wewahitchka, (138 East Orange Ave.) at 2:00 PM Central Time on Saturday, November 5, 2022 with Pastor Jeff Painter and Joey Smith officiating. Interment will follow at Roberts Cemetery in Wewahitchka. Florida.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Honeyville United Methodist Church, Box 917, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465

Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, FL