Charles Grant Gallimore

Charles Grant Gallimore, age 86, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Saturday, April 25, 2015.  He was born on December 11, 1928 in Floyd County, VA to Cordle and Stella Gallimore.  Preceding him in death were his parents, four sisters, and three brothers.

He is survived by his faithful wife of 68 years, Oneda Bond Gallimore.  He enjoyed clearing trails through the woods so he could visit each of his five children and their spouses:  daughter, Linda (Bob) Mitchell; son, Benny (Carolyn) Gallimore; son, Michael (Elaine) Gallimore; daughter, Judy (Mel) Bowden; son, Randy (Marilyn) Gallimore.  He was also blessed with 12 grandchildren:  Teresa (Kevin) Sweeney, Mark (Kathy) Gallimore, Sherry (Randy) Quesenberry, John (Michele) Gallimore, Brian (Becky) Huff, Robin (Tater) Thompson, Tina Marshall, Michael (Debra) Gallimore, Paul (April) Gallimore, Matthew (Jessica) Gallimore, Mary Shelton, and Sara (Justin) Coleman.  More blessings include 24 great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter and another great-great-grandchild on the way; a sister, Isabel Shelor, a brother, Roger (Erma Jean) Gallimore, both of Christiansburg , a sister-in-law, Irene Gallimore of Floyd,   as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, including a special “adopted daughter” Sue Wheeler and family.

Daddy’s working hands were evidence of his years as a farmer, gardener, woodworker and whatever else he set his mind to do.  He was a master gardener who, along with Mother, grew fruits and vegetables to share with the family as well as with many neighbors and friends.  His urgency to plant their garden this year will no doubt yield a bountiful crop.  As he fashioned wooden crosses, he carefully inscribed the words “God loves us all” on many of them.  He gave many away as a means of sharing his faith.  Now he has traded those crosses for a crown.  Whatever his hands found to do, he did it with all his might.

He was a family man.  His love for all his family was often manifested in things he made.  Taking old scrap materials, he made many things for his grandchildren to enjoy in their picnic area and playground in the woods, which became a favorite gathering spot for many.  The birds also found refuge in the many birdhouses Daddy built, and he found joy in feeding them each day.

Though our hearts are broken, we can rejoice in the promise that we will one day be reunited because of what Jesus said: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.   And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.”

Funeral services will be held at Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren, 3883 Alum Ridge Road, Floyd, on Tuesday, April 28, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastors Roy Turpin, Brian Turpin, and Mike Gallimore.  The family will receive friends at the church on Monday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m.