Charles Thomas Cagle
Charles Thomas Cagle, 86, passed away peacefully Aug. 15, 2026, at his home after a long illness.
He grew up in Knoxville, the son of Frederick Eules Cagle and Gracie Mae Tittle Cagle. He became a Christian at an early age while attending Elm Street Baptist Church. He loved and participated in all kinds of sports, especially football.
Charles graduated from Young High School and joined the U.S. Navy, where he traveled throughout the Pacific. After returning home, he married the love of his life, Sandra Lunsford.
After graduating from the University of Tennessee, Charles was employed by the Anderson County school system as a speech pathologist for 30 years, spending most of his career at Lake City Elementary School. He later earned two additional college degrees from Union College and Tennessee Tech.
In retirement, Charles enjoyed golfing with his friends, traveling, spending time with his family and attending Beaver Ridge United Methodist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Gracie Cagle; his sister, Glenda; and his brother, Jim Cagle.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sandra Cagle; daughter, Kimberly (Keith) Burnett; grandsons, Kaleb (Abbey) Burnett and Keaton Burnett; sisters, Darlene Sharp and Annette (Darrell) Catlett; brother-in-law, Darrell (Brenda) Lunsford; sister-in-law, Gloria Lunsford; and several nieces and nephews.
The family extends special thanks to the staff of UT Hospice for their care.
The family will receive friends at noon Thursday at Woodhaven Cemetery, with the service and burial to follow. The Rev. Teresa McClure will officiate.
Pallbearers will be Keith Burnett, Kaleb Burnett, Keaton Burnett, Darrell Lunsford, Darrell Catlett and Jeff Catlett.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an animal shelter of the donor’s choice.
