Carlos Linden Motes, 88, passed away on Monday, August 1, 2016 in the loving care of Shirley Stilwell Motes, his devoted wife of 65 years. Born in 1927, Carlos was the 11th of 12 children born to James W. “Will” Motes and Bertha Mae Roberts Motes. He was raised on the family farm in Francis.
For many years, Carlos and Shirley have been faithful members of the First Presbyterian Church. He served as both a Deacon and an Elder. Shirley was a Deacon and active member of church women’s groups. When family or friends needed help, he and Shirley willingly gave of their time. Carlos was a member of the Putnam County Shrine Club and a Mason.
Carlos was employed by the Groceteria, owned by his brother Willard, and was a loyal employee of Hudson Pulp & Paper / Georgia Pacific for 42 years.
After retiring in 1999, Carlos enjoyed traveling with Shirley and family snow skiing trips, having learned to snow ski at the age of 62. At their beloved river home, he and Shirley entertained family and lifelong friends.
Carlos served his country in the Coast Guard, the Merchant Marines and as a Naval Corpsman attached to the Marines.
Carlos was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers and sisters, Evelyn Thompson, Willard E. Motes, Mildred “Mickey” Westbury, Alice Lester, Delman Motes, Sidney Motes, Herschel Motes, and Frank Motes. He is survived by his devoted wife, Shirley Motes and children, Connie M. Eilbeck, Terry L. Castleberry, Vicki L. Robinson, Rockney A. Motes, Randall K. Motes, their spouses, 9 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Carlos’ name to the First Presbyterian Church in Palatka or a favorite charity.
A memorial service will be held at 11:30 am on Monday, August 15, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church, 123 S. Second St., Palatka, FL 32177 with Pastor George Head officiating. The Palatka Masonic Lodge #34 F&AM; will also conduct Masonic Rites.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Carlos’s Book of Memories page at www.JohnsonOverturffunerals.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.