Charles Morris “Fats” Dugger, a beloved member of the community, passed away on June 16, 2023, at NHC Columbia at the age of 79. He was born on June 28, 1943, in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee, to Frank and Virginia Dugger.
Charles had an adventurous spirit and a zest for life. Charles enjoyed playing billiards at the Pool Room in Mount Pleasant. He had a deep passion for operating and watching large equipment, which led him to operate drag lines and other large machinery and mining phosphate for Hall & Knox for many years. After, he drove a dump truck for Floyd and Floyd. In his younger years, he also owned and operated a restaurant, Southern Drive-In Restaurant in Mount Pleasant.
Throughout his life, Charles seemed to possess the resilience of a cat with nine lives. He miraculously survived a work related accident that shot a chisel into his skull, as well as a building collapse that only resulted in a broken ankle. His unwavering determination and strength were truly remarkable.
A devoted fan of WWE Wrestling, Charles enjoyed following the thrilling matches and larger-than-life characters that captivated his imagination. He also found joy in taking short rides on the back roads, observing the happenings in his community, and connecting with his neighbors. Prior to his declining health, he enjoyed going on trips to Gatlinburg with his family.
One of Charles’ greatest joys was spending time with his daughters, Cindi Lynn Brooks, and Sandra Kaye (Jimmy) Mullins. He attended most all his grandchildren’s sporting activities including baseball, basketball, football, and softball. It brought him joy to support his grandchildren in what they loved doing. Charles was immensely grateful for the love and companionship he received from his family, and his daughters will forever treasure the memories they created together.
Charles was steadfast in his Christian faith and attended in his early years Southside Baptist and later Parkway Baptist.
The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Ernie and Jill Couch, Jason and Lisa Couch, Gerald Matlock, Tommy and Sandra Goetz, David and Debbie Stanfield, Mike and David Roberts, Wendall Spears, Angie Lindsey, and the entire Parkway Baptist Family for their unwavering support and care during this difficult time. Special thanks are extended to Brian, Chris, and Braden Gray, as well as Buddy Odom, for their invaluable assistance while Charles was still living at home.
Charles is survived by his daughters, Cindi Lynn Brooks, and Sandra Kaye (Jimmy) Mullins. He has 7 cherished grandchildren: Staff Sergeant Christa Lee Douglas, Kelsey Lane Santiago, Bradley Shay Jones, Kaylee Nicole Goodwin, Brady Evan Hill, Cole Jarrett Goodwin, and Chesney Anne Hickman. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Sydnie Rae, Landry Cole, and Carsen Atley. Additionally, he is survived by his ex-wife, Faye Colvett, who was divorced many years and, without hesitation provided him with the care he needed, spent time taking him for rides, and preparing his meals.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Virginia Dugger, his brother Buford Jack Dugger, Sister-in-law: Inez England Dugger, his treasured grandson Cobey Brooks, a very special cousin Terry Dugger, and special lady Carolyn Isabell.
A special thank you to Dr. Ben Gardner and Compassus Hospice, Lisa Reed, Paige Watts, and all of the hospice nurses and staff at NHC Columbia for the excellent and loving care to Charles and his family, Mike and David Roberts, and Jimmy Mullins whom he loved like his own.
The family has entrusted the care of Charles Morris “Fats” Dugger to Williams Funeral Home. Details regarding a graveside service to honor and remember his life will be announced in the near future.
