Charles E. Porter

Charles Eugene (Chuck) Porter, age 81, peacefully entered into his eternal home on December 10, 2024. Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, his family moved to the Nashville area, where Charles would later graduate from high school. A lengthy tenure in the food services industry was inevitable beginning with Colonial Baking Company, Food Service Supply Company, and his father's Burger Boy. Beginning in 1973 Charles enjoyed a fulfilling career in management and executive positions with Shoney's Inc. In 1995, he was promoted to President of Shoney's Inc.

The many stellar attributes that served him well in career also enhanced his personal life. He was a 50-year member of John B. Garrett Order of the Eastern Star, Mount Juliet Lodge #642 F&AM, and Al Menah Shrine Temple. His deepening faith journey included years as a dedicated, longtime member of the Hickory Bend United Methodist Church before his membership at Dodson Chapel United Methodist Church in later years. His strong faith and relationship with our Lord provided him with strength these past nine years filled with medical and physical challenges.

Charles deeply loved his children and family, looking forward to calls and visits. He and Gale enjoyed hosting many gatherings through their abundant gift of hospitality. They took joy in tending to their property, their horses and pets, and even occasional deer. With chores completed, they frequently cherished boating with friends at the Cedar Creek Yacht Club.

Preceding Charles in death are his parents, Harold Porter and Virginia Porter McWhirter; sisters, Lavone Beem and Pat Burnidge; and brother, Steven Porter. Charles is survived by his wife, the love of his life, Gale C. Porter; daughters, Leslie Porter Dellinger and Carla Wilson (Kenny); sons, Jeff Porter (Mary) and Michael Dellinger Porter (Courtney); grandchildren Scott Tancak, Ethan Wilson, Kaitlyn Oconner (Josh), Justin Porter, and Ava Pinelli Porter; great grandchildren Korbin and Kloe Tancak, Leighton Fulmer, and Logan Oconner; as well as a host of cousins and dear friends.

On Friday, January 3, 2025, the family cordially invites family and friends for visitation at Hermitage Funeral Home, 535 Shute Lane, Old Hickory, TN, from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM with a Celebration of Life for Charles following visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Charles' memory may be directed to either the Shepherd Center Foundation in Atlanta, GA (https://foundation.shepherd.org/ or the Shriners Hospital for Children https://www.shrinerschildrens.org.

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