Charlie Belcher
Charles "Charlie" R. Belcher, Jr., 83, died peacefully at home on Sunday, June 17, surrounded by his family.
He graduated from City High School in 1953 and attended the University of Tennessee at Knoxville before graduating with his Doctorate of Dentistry from the UTHSC College of Dentistry in Memphis. While in dental school, Charlie was elected treasurer of his dental class and became known as “Honest Abe.” Charlie was a dentist in Chattanooga for 38 years.
He was active in the Dixie Youth Baseball Program in Red Bank while his sons played baseball. He was also an active member of Rivermont Presbyterian Church where he was elected 17 times as a Building and Grounds deacon. He participated in the church’s mission programs, helping to build 17 Habitat Homes with one being named after him. Charlie went to Haiti with the church and served as a dentist and assisted in building an eye clinic and other needed resources for children and adults. After spending a week in Haiti with Charlie, someone who worked with him there described him as the “gentle giant.” The verse 1 Thessalonians 4:11 says, “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands.” This verse describes Charlie Belcher’s life perfectly. Charlie loved visiting the Smoky Mountains, working in his rose garden and spending time with his church and his family.
His greatest joys in life were his grandchildren, Katie and Andrew.
He leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Phyllis Belcher, his brother, Richard Belcher (Suzanne), his sons Robert Belcher (Madeline), David Belcher, and Randy Belcher, and grandchildren, Katie Belcher and Andrew Belcher.
The family would like to thank Susan Gooden, Katherine Calhoun and Hospice of Chattanooga for their special care and support of our family.
The memorial service will be held at Rivermont Presbyterian Church, 3319 Hixson Pike, Chattanooga, Tn. 37415, with Clay Thomas officiating on Friday, June 22 at 4 p.m., with visitation following.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Rivermont Presbyterian Memorial Mission Fund or your favorite charity.
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home.