It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles (Chuck) Francis Thourot Jr., who departed this life on January 8th, 2025. Chuck was born September 15th, 1946 to Charles Francis Thourot and Thelma Leva Killen and was cared for and loved by his foster parents John and Julie Gillis. Chuck is survived by his beloved wife, Annette Thourot, with whom he was married 57 years. He was a proud father to his children, C. Scott Thourot and Melynda Thourot, who were the pride and joy of his life as well as his son-in-law Richie Collado. He also leaves behind his adored granddaughters, Madelyn E. Collado and Emelia M. Collado, who brought immeasurable joy to his days.

Chuck was a loving husband and father who valued his family without measure. Since he grew up in foster care, he made sure to provide his family a loving home and his children the opportunities that he never had. Chuck took great joy in spoiling his two granddaughters and watching them grow before his eyes. He also gave generously and served with many organizations for wildlife conservation. He loved the great outdoors and was an avid sportsman. He was very smart, had a wonderful sense of humor, and was a likable guy who made a lasting impact on everyone he met.

Chuck was the oldest of 7 siblings and 6 half-siblings. He graduated from Miami Edison High School and attended college in Georgia where he played football. Chuck met Nettie Madonia in 1964, and they married in 1967. Since Chuck had joined the Airforce in 1966, the newlyweds lived in freezing Minot, ND for 3 years. Chuck was a Sergeant serving in the 91st Strategic Missile Wing as part of the Air Force’s Nuclear Human Reliability Program maintaining Minuteman missiles. In 1970 they moved to Hialeah, got their first home in Hollywood in 1972, and Chuck retired from Bellsouth/ATT in 2002 after 36 years (as a cable splicer, foreman, splicing and line crew manager in Miami and Sanford).

Chuck demonstrated his love of nature in many ways. In the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s he was active in Ducks Unlimited and the Dade County Half Track Club, serving as treasurer and helping run many events. From scratch, he built his own airboat and camp in the Everglades, the “Head Hunter Camp.”

He was member of the “Kelley Hunting Camp” for over 50 years, helped build their bunkhouse in the Ocala National Forrest, and was the grill master for all their annual “opening hunt weekend” BBQ’s.

Chuck was active in Volusia County Orchid Society, had his own greenhouse, and his orchids won many awards. He even served annually as their Santa.

Please send your favorite picture, video or memory to Chuckthourotcelebrationoflife… and a digital scrapbook will be created as a family keepsake.

A memorial service will be held 11am on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Revive Church: 8851 SW Old Kansas Ave, Stuart, FL 34997. 

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Chuck, we invite you to show your support by giving to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Chuck loved the St. Jude mission and how they provided for all family needs without a single bill to the family. Your contribution would be a meaningful way to continue Chuck’s legacy of helping others.

Chuck Thourot Memorial Fund for St. Jude

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