It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Charles (Chuck) Harvey Gatton, Jr., who left us on September 16, 2024, at the age of 57. Born in Washington, DC, on October 1, 1966, to Charles and Mary Gatton, Chuck earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and was a NCAA Division I athlete on the Towson University Swim Team. Chuck dedicated his life to teaching and mentoring students across various schools, including Yankeetown School, Crystal River Middle School, Crystal River High School and Inverness Middle School. His passion for education and his unwavering commitment to his students made him a beloved figure in the classroom and beyond. In addition to his teaching career, Chuck was a cherished coach, including 18 years as a head coach of USA club, collegiate and high school swim teams. He produced multiple Top 16, Junior National and Collegiate swimmers including 4 National Age Group record holders. Chuck was the head swim coach of Swim Columbus in Columbus, Mississippi for 10 years and then after moving to Florida, he continued to inspire and guide countless young athletes as the head coach of Suncoast Swim Team and Crystal River High School Boys and Girls Swim teams. His coaching extended to multiple sports, including basketball, volleyball, track, cross country and golf, showcasing his versatility and dedication to fostering talent in every field. Chuck’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication, encouragement and a profound love for teaching and coaching. He leaves behind a community of students, athletes, colleagues, and friends who will forever treasure his memory including his most famous quote from his school morning shows, “Stay Fabulous!” He is survived by his wife, Gayle Elkin Gatton of Inverness, his sister and brother-in-law, Paula and Dan Pitts, and nieces Jordan and Cameron Pitts all of Frederick, Maryland. He is also survived by his Mississippi family, Amy Lowe Sharp (Louis), Laura Lowe Newman (Ryan) and their children Lores, Lucy and Laura Lea Sharp and Audrey Grace and Liza Newman. Chuck will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Chuck. Your legacy of love, dedication, excellence and impact in many communities will never be forgotten and will be remembered for generations to come. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in Chuck’s name to the Boys and Girls Club of Citrus County (401 N Apopka Ave, Inverness, Fl 34450) or Camp Rising Sun (P.O. Box 8241, Columbus, Ms 39705). Private cremation arrangements are under the care of Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home in Inverness.
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