Carlton Gary Fleetwood

Carlton Gary Fleetwood, age 79, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 23, 2026, after a courageous 18-year battle with cancer. Born on August 12, 1947, Gary lived a life completely dedicated to his faith, his family, and his calling.

A proud alumnus of Clemson University, Gary earned his bachelor’s degree in architecture. While he was a skilled architect by trade, his true passion was serving Jesus Christ. Gary faithfully shepherded his congregation as the pastor of Chime Bell Baptist Church for almost 32 years. His mission to spread the Gospel extended far beyond his local community; he traveled the world as a missionary teaching in Africa, Romania, Indonesia, Philippines and many other places. Additionally, he shared his deep theological knowledge by teaching seminary students through Covington Theological Seminary, impacting lives across the globe.

Throughout his long, 18-year health battle, Gary’s resilience was rooted in his favorite scripture, Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” When the Lord called him home, he was ready, peaceful, and secure in his eternal home with God.

Gary loved the Lord with all his heart, and his family was his ultimate earthly treasure. He is survived by his loving wife, Brenda; his three cherished children, Andrew and his wife Jasmine, Patience and her husband Shane, and Benjamin; six grandchildren, Chelsea, Noelle, Chance, Hannah, Sage, and Tristan; and two great-grandchildren, Luna and Malakai. He also leaves behind his devoted sister, Jan, his beloved niece, April and his sister-in-law, Linda. He will be forever missed, deeply loved, and always remembered.

A memorial service will be held at Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home on Sunday, September 27, 2026. The visitation will begin at 2 PM and the service will start at 3:30 PM.

SHELLHOUSE-RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 715 E. PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC