Gary D. Charles Sr. of Fort Pierce, FL passed away on Monday, June 29, 2026.

Gary was born in McVeigh, KY on July 25, 1941. He was the son of the late, Earl Thomas and Eunice Lillian Coleman Charles.

After graduation, Gary moved to Dayton, Ohio and worked at Paddock Pontiac where he became the youngest parts manager in Southeastern Ohio. Later he worked at Coffey’s Body Shop as a shop manager for 16 years.

While in Ohio, he met and married Anna Marie Messer Charles. They were married for 52 years before Marie’s death in 2014. They welcomed 2 children who survive him, Debbie Charles Brooks and Gary (Caroline) Charles Jr.

In 1980, he moved his family to Fort Pierce to work with his brothers at Charles Redi Mix. While his background was in the automotive industry, he taught himself the concrete business. Doing so he developed several relationships with the builders and contractors in the St. Lucie, Martin and Indian River counties.

In 1994 Gary entered another area when he ran and won a seat on St. Lucie County Commission which he held from 1994-1998. During his time, he served 2 terms as Chairman of the Board. While serving on several boards as commissioner, he was most proud of serving on the Fire Board by working on behalf of the St. Lucie County Firefighters where his son and son in law were employed.

In 2016, Gary found love again when he married Nelda E. Charles and welcomed her children, Robin Fox Tagg, Karen (Tim) Smothers, Sally Fox Dunn, Doug (Gail) Fox and Nick (Diedra) Fox as well as several grandchildren and great grandchildren to the family.

In addition to Nelda, his children Debbie Brooks and Gary (Caroline) Charles Jr, Gary is survived by his sister, Linda (Paul) Cook of Cookeville, TN, his Grandchildren, Ethan (Chrissy) Brooks, Lyndsay Brooks and Christa Charles, his great grandchildren, AnnaMarie Brooks and Garson Brooks. Also surviving are his brother-in-laws, sister- in - laws and several nieces and nephews as well as many friends!

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Anna Marie Charles, son in law, Gary (Garfish) Brooks, sister Janet Crane, brothers Earl Charles and Roger Charles and 2 infant brothers, Terry Michael and David Leon.

Gary could tell you about a car from just looking at taillights and fenders. He enjoyed reading a good book, and spending time with his family. Being a man of strong faith, we know that we will see him again!

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 3:00 PM– his 85th birthday – at Haisley Funeral Home on Okeechobee Road.

Donations may be made in his name to Treasure Coast Hospice Association.