Charlie Lewellyn Cone

Charlie Lewellyn Cone passed away at home on November 28, 2021, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s Disease. Preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Jack Sligh; he is survived by a long list of friends and family who will never fill the space left by his passing. Survivors include his wife of 54 years – Dawn Cone; his children – Dr. Allison Cone Sligh (Chip) and Rev. Christopher Cone; his grandchildren – Luke, Wyatt, and Callie Sligh, and Abbie and Clancy Cone; his sister – Ila Cone Burton (Harold); his brother – Ray Cone (Novella); his sidekick – Clint Brannon; his sweet neighbors – Sheila and Howard Smith; his ballgame crew and faithful helpers – the Hoppers; his travelling partners and dear friends – Harold and Joan Cleveland; and many more nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Special thanks to Teresa Greer and Amedisys Hospice for their help during his illness (especially Peyton, Tish, and Danny).

Born to Verlie and Isle Mae Cone on December 12, 1947; raised by his father and grandmother, Dona Cone (who he described as a bigger than life 4’9” force of nature, and who was admittedly the largest influence on his character). Charlie grew up with his siblings in Moody’s Chapel on a dirt road at the top of a hill, just a few miles from Altoona, where he walked uphill both ways to and from school and football practice. A proud Altoona Choctaw, he was a member of the class of 1966, the last graduating class of Altoona High School. He attended Jacksonville State University with his high school sweetheart, Dawn Clifton, whom he married on January 20, 1967. There were children born and moves made before we all settled into our home at the bottom of that same hill he grew up on. He worked at Goodyear in Gadsden for 32 years. The highlight of his time there was winning a chance to go up in the famous Goodyear blimp and take aerial pictures of most of Etowah County. After his retirement, he pursued his dream career: Grandfather.

He loved road trips that started at 4am, perfectly wrapping Christmas gifts, pogo sticks, big snowstorms, his family, and Alabama football – not necessarily in that order. He never liked talking on the phone, sweet biscuits, salad dressing, and fishing on Sundays – pretty much in that order.

A master wood crafter, prolific photographer, and accomplished gardener, Charlie, just like his dad, always pushed the limits of how big a summer garden could be. We grew up engaged in his constant science experiments and were in awe of his ability to pack so much into such small car trunks. He also made the best cheese toast that, even with detailed instructions, none of us could replicate. The ultimate band dad through high school and into college, being on the sidelines with a camera made him happy, especially in his favorite stadium – Legion Field. He was a collector of football tickets and programs, vintage banks, photography equipment, tools, woodworking paraphernalia (so many clamps!), and a long list of other stuff that “might be good for something someday.” Everything was meticulously cataloged in his memory because he seldom wrote anything down (we have no idea what most of these things are).

He was a church-goer his entire life, first at Moody’s Chapel Baptist, then, after he married into a Methodist family, at Altoona First United Methodist Church. Not ever one to talk much, his theology was effectively summed up in his response to my question about his position as trustee chair: “I’m the one who gets to mow the grass.” The simplicity of showing up and gladly doing what was needed for his church was on display for decades as he chaperoned youth trips, taught Sunday school, supported Wesley Foundation, built backdrops and crazy program props for Camp Sumatanga, and helped mom keep the church nursery.

A literal superhero to his 5 grandchildren, he was the strongest person they knew and the one they called when they were up for an adventure, whether it was in the backyard or hours away. His last 21 years were spent devoted to them with an unconditional affection few in this world ever experience.

Dad was the person who knew what to do. Always. Everywhere. That’s why you felt so safe when he was around and that’s why everyone chose him when they needed help. Not only was he dependable, he could fix anything, build anything, and had an uncanny ability to befriend babies and dogs wherever he went. He handled every situation without judgement and barely an acknowledgment of emotion– just a nod now and then.

Charlie Cone played center for the Altoona High School football team. According to an article from ESPN, the center is “a fascinating, multilayered position played by bright, charismatic, selfless individuals.” The article goes on to claim: "Centers are big men with little egos and broad shoulders, capable of carrying a heavy burden on every play and in every game.” That perfectly describes both his role on the field and in our family. His sister stated what we all know is true: “He’s the best one of all of us.” We realize he made everyone around him better with his patience and kindness.

We will celebrate his life and invite you to join us with face masks at your comfort level on Thursday, December 2, 2 pm at Altoona First United Methodist Church. Visitation will begin at the church at 1 p.m. The service will be led by Rev. Harvey Beck and Rev. Chris Cone with music by Rev. Gary and Crystal Campbell. Pall bearers: Luke Sligh, Wyatt Sligh, Dan Hopper, Joshua Rogers, Kyle McCann, Clint Brannon, Tracy Cone, and Tommy Phillips. Honorary pall bearers: Harold Cleveland, Howard Smith, Bobby Frachiseur, and Matt Anderson. Graveside interment: Altoona Walnut Grove Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.morganfuneralchapel.com for the Cone family.