Obituary of Charles Thomas Rumbley, JR

Charles Thomas Rumbley Jr., passed away peacefully on June 15, 2023 at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, FL. He was born on September 14, 1943, in Monroeville, Alabama, to his late parents Charles T. Rumbley Sr. and Ivey Kennedy Rumbley. 

Charles had a remarkable life filled with achievements and cherished memories. He graduated from Monroe County High School in 1961, where he excelled in baseball and basketball, earning recognition for his athletic abilities. Following his graduation, he pursued his higher education at Auburn University, where he studied ROTC. During his time at Auburn, Charles became a proud member of the Sigma Pi fraternity, serving as its president. In 1965, he graduated from Auburn with a bachelor's degree in business administration.

Shortly after his graduation, Charles was drafted to serve his country in the Vietnam War. Throughout his two-year service in the army, he demonstrated great courage and dedication, for which he received the Bronze Star for meritorious service and a Purple Heart. Charles returned home in December 1967, his service complete, and began a new chapter in his life.

Charles embarked on a successful career with Vanity Fair beginning in January of 1968, starting in Jackson, Alabama, and subsequently being transferred to various plants and cities and roles within the VF. He spent a significant amount of time in Monroeville, where he served as the Vice President of Quality Control. Later, he transitioned to the role of Vice President of Sales in the company's New York office, a position he held until his resignation. In 1994, Charles was appointed as the President of Kellwood Company in New York City, where he dedicated his talents until 2002. In 2003, he continued to a second phase of his career, being based in Birmingham where his daughter and grandson resided, working with National Women's Missionary Union as the Operational Service Center Director until 2013.   

Beyond his professional achievements, Charles was a man of many passions. He deeply enjoyed activities such as duck hunting, fishing, and gardening. His cherished dog, Buddy, brought him immense joy, and he held a profound love for Auburn football and sports in general. Charles actively participated in various organizations, serving as the President of the Lafitte Cove Homeowners Association in Pensacola Beach and being a member of the Dogwood Tea Garden Club at Gulf Breeze Presbyterian Church. He also held leadership roles as the President of the Monroe County Auburn Alumni Club throughout the '90s and as the President of the Vanity Fair Golf Tennis Club.

Charles Rumbley was preceded in death by his parents, Charles T. Rumbley Sr. and Ivey Kennedy Rumbley, his sister-in-law, Janice Rumbley, Jean McCurdy Grantham, and his granddaughter, Grayton Kennedy Creekbaum. He leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory. Charles is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Ginger McCurdy Rumbley, his daughter, Leigh Brittingham (Jack) of Birmingham and Athens, Texas, and his grandson, Gray Creekbaum, of Birmingham, AL. He is also survived by his brother, Dick Rumbley (Charlsie) of Atlanta, Georgia, brother in law, Bill Grantham of McDavid, nieces Lynn Dougherty (Michael) of Atlanta, Ga and Lauren Grantham, of Pensacola, FL and great niece, Lane Dougherty and great nephews, Thomas Dougherty and Jayce Niswonger. 

Charles Thomas Rumbley Jr. will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His remarkable accomplishments, unwavering dedication to family and community, and his warm and caring nature will forever remain in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace, knowing his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

There will be a private Life Celebration near his birthday in September as he was looking so forward to his 80th birthday party at the Grand Marlin on Pensacola Beach. 

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Charles Rumbley, JR, please visit our Tree Store