Carlos Edward “Ed” Gravitte
Carlos Edward “Ed” Gravitte of Hixson passed peacefully Thursday, June 1, 2023, surrounded by family and friends.
Known affectionately as “Hero” by his family, he was born January 7, 1931 in Dayton, Tn. He was preceded in death by his father, Roscoe, mother, Ada, brother, Leon, and sisters, Lucille Henderson and Jessie Mae Hudson.
Ed enlisted in the United States Army on March 7, 1951, and entered the Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He completed the Basic Airborne Course in August 1951 and qualified as a parachutist. As a private first class, he then completed the Jumpmaster Course in October 1952 and qualified as a Jumpmaster. He was honorably discharged in March 1954.
Ed was a long-time Chattanooga businessman whose office, Chattanooga Bonding Company, was a bustling hub of activity with good friends stopping by for fellowship, story-telling, laughter, and conversations on politics and sports.
He was known as a generous man who epitomized the quote - “There are no strangers here; only friends you haven’t yet met.” Many people initially unknown to Ed were gifted a crisp $2 bill, which became his calling card of sorts. He always told recipients, “Put that away and don’t spend it and you’ll have money for the rest of your life.” Curious and surprised looks were then replaced by laughter and an appreciation that this man truly cared about and enjoyed meeting people and making new friends.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 64 years, Bonnie, sons Roger (Barbara) and Eddie, grandchildren Kyle (Devin), Ross, and Maddie, and great grandchildren Caiden and Sienna.
Ed and Bonnie were frequent travelers who visited all but three states. However, their most visited attractions were Neyland Stadium and Thompson Boling Arena, as they were long-time season ticket holders for Tennessee Vols football and basketball teams. In their latter years, they found great enjoyment in attending local bluegrass performances. The road knew no limits for Ed and Bonnie, who were known to drive long distances for short visits on a whim.
The family will receive friends at Hamilton Funeral Home from 3-6 p.m. on Thursday, June 8. Funeral services will be at 6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to your charity of choice or church.
A special thanks for the neighbors of Cloverdale, as Ed made daily drives throughout the neighborhood greeting all his neighbors.