Frank Newkirk Charles III

Frank Newkirk (Kirk) Charles III passed away at his home in Tallahassee with his family by his side on Sunday, January 24, 2021, after a brief, intense battle with cancer. He was 79.

Kirk was born in Jacksonville on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 1941, to Frank N. Charles Jr and Virginia Butler Charles. Paternal grandparents were Frank Charles Sr and Marie LeFils Charles; maternal grandparents were Hayman Butler and Loura Williams Butler.

Kirk’s passion was archaeology and anthropology. He earned his BA after study at UF and FSU. He was a Registered Professional Archaeologist and a member of SOPA. He worked for many years doing contract archaeology throughout the Southeast. His curiosity and appetite for learning filled an ever-growing reservoir of historical, geographical, and cinematic knowledge which inspired his unique collections. When playing Trivial Pursuit, he was the roamer, helping all sides. He reveled in thought-provoking conversations.

He married Virginia Marwitz in 1968, and their love endures beyond their 52 year anniversary celebrated in November, 2020. Tallahassee was their home for 48 years.

Kirk’s love for his family and pride in all they did was evident to all. In addition to Virginia, he is survived by his daughters Aloura Melissa Charles (Finn Riley) and Alexis Anne Charles (Josh Woodyard), and grandchildren Audie Lee Woodyard, Greta Naomi Woodyard, and Jasper Newkirk Riley. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Loura Charles Montgomery (Jacksonville) and treasured nieces Martina Montgomery and Marie Montgomery, and nephew Jason Montgomery.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at an informal gathering on Tuesday, February 2, from 3 – 5, at Lake Ella on the grounds of The Black Dog Café to share memories of Kirk. We respectfully request masks and social distancing. Friends may donate in Kirk’s name to Big Bend Hospice or contact Tallahassee Nurseries 850-385-2162 for a camellia or gardenia bush to be planted near Kirk’s memorial bench at Lake Ella.

A family graveside service will be held in Pensacola, FL.