Charles "CG" Galen Belt

Charles "CG" Galen Belt, 82, of Marion, KY passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026 at Baptist Health Paducah, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on August 1, 1943, Charles was a devoted husband, father, papaw, brother, farmer, craftsman, and faithful friend who was deeply loved by all who knew him. He shared 57 cherished years of marriage with the love of his life, Ruth Ann Belt.

Charles loved the simple blessings God gave him throughout life - truck and tractor pulling, fishing, working on the farm and spending time with his family. In later years, he found peace and comfort in turning wooden bowls, an art that became therapy for his heart and soul. He found great joy in giving his creations away to others, believing kindness and generosity were gifts meant to be shared.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth Ann Belt; his daughters, Gala Belt Sykes and husband, Brian Sykes of Puryear, Tennessee and D'Arcy Ponce and husband, Jonathan Ponce of Paducah, Kentucky and his beloved grandson, Charles Hayden Sykes of Puryear, Tennessee.

He is also survived by his siblings, Janet Stevens and husband CW Stevens of Marion, Kentucky, Gwen Melton of Marion, Kentucky, Phyllis Deatherage of Lola, Kentucky, Kay Easley and husband Noble Easley of Marion, Kentucky and Eddie Harold Belt of Marion, Kentucky as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Charles "Snap" Belt and Margaret Newcom Belt; his son, Charles Gregory Belt; brothers-in-law, Jessie Melton and Jerry Deatherage and sister-in-law, Marilyn Belt.

Charles will be remembered for his strong spirit, mile-long stubborn streak, hardworking hands, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family. Whether on the farm, by the lake fishing or in his woodshop crafting wooden bowls, he lived a life rooted in faith, hard work, humility, kindness and love for others.

Though his family grieves the loss of his presence here on earth, they find comfort in God's promise of eternal life and peace.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7

Charles was more than a husband, father, papaw G, brother, son and friend - he was the foundation of his family and a blessing to all who knew him. His memory, love, and legacy will live forever in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

"Absent from the body, present with the Lord." - 2 Corinthians 5:8

Services are scheduled for Noon Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion, KY with interment in Mapleview Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 9 AM until service time Wednesday at the funeral home.

Donations may be made to Mapleview Cemetery, PO Box 544, Marion, Kentucky 42064.