Charles Joseph Cares, 84, of Murfreesboro (formerly of Shelbyville) died on January 15, 2024.
He was born July 25, 1939, in Peabody, Mass. He moved to Shelbyville in the late 1960s to work at Coey Tanning in Wartrace with his father. The leather industry was in his genes which he passed to one of his sons and grandsons. He loved his red wine and could be found with a glass every afternoon.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Thomas and Marion Barbara Cares.
He is survived by his wife, Madge Parker Cares of Murfreesboro; his children, Beth (Mark) Smith of Shelbyville, Chuck (Masami) Cares of Murfreesboro, James Cares, Jeff Cartwright, Chris Cartwright and Marinda (Kevin) Grissom of Shelbyville; his grandchildren, Ryan (Jessica) Smith, Courtney (Nick) Young, Chase (Lorrie) Cares, Will Cares, Daleigh Cares, Naomi Abe, Keita Abe, Zeke (Katy) Grissom and Zoe Grissom; his great-grandchildren, Ryder and Boone Smith, Cam, Croy and Charlie Young, Parker and Brooks Grissom, Colten Cares.
Per his request, he will be cremated and his ashes will be placed beside his parents. A small amount of ashes will be spread at Chimney Tops in the Smokies by his children. It was his wish to have no service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Alive Hospice, 1629 Williams Dr., Murfreesboro, TN 37129; the Alzheimer’s Association; or the American Cancer Society.
Hillcrest Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
