FLORALA, Ala. — In loving memory of Charles Wayne McFatter, who was received in Jesus’ loving arms July 19, 2017.  He would have been 74 July 20.

He was born to Arley Oliver and Lydia Larpenter McFatter July 20, 1943, in Port Arthur, Texas. He grew up in Port Arthur, where he attended Thomas Jefferson High School and graduated valedictorian.

He received his undergraduate degree from Lamar State College in Beaumont, Texas, and his medical degree from Baylor University in Houston, Texas.  He spent two years in service at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas.  He then pursued his life-long passion and began his first medical practice in Vicksburg in 1974, where he was an OB/GYN for 21 years.  In 1993, he moved to Destin, Fla., where he practiced for another 16 years before retiring in 2009.  At that time, he moved to Florala, Ala., and practiced part-time in Crestview, Fla.

He enjoyed a fulfilling life full of love for his family and friends, a passion for fishing, laughing, tending his garden and playing on his tractor.  He was known for his compassionate kind heart, humble nature and his wit and humor.  He was truly a unique soul, one that will never be duplicated or replaced.

He is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Catherine (Kitty) McFatter; son, Shawn McFatter (Mary); three daughters, Heather (Paul) Richardson, Jenifer (Richard) Tharrington and Desiree Whatley; and nine adoring grandchildren, April, Haleigh, Ollie and Janie Richardson, Caden, Joshua and Lauren Tharrington, and Gerrard and Ameilia Whatley-Arriola.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, July 29, from 2 to 6 p.m. at 23678 Fifth Ave. next door to The Lake House Bed & Breakfast in Florala, Ala.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, Fla., is graciously requested (alaqua.org or call 850-880-6399).