Charles Edward Fritts, known to most as Ed, died on March 20, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Candler Hospital in Savannah, Ga. He was the last surviving of five siblings born to Ross and Cessie Fritts in Mountain City, Tenn.
Ed was an exceptional athlete, attending East Tennessee State University on a basketball scholarship, where he also played tennis and was on the track team. Ed received his master’s degree in industrial engineering from University of Southern California. He retired from the General Accounting Office after 32 years and spent another 18 in the private sector. On the weekends, he could be found on the golf course or the tennis court and on many weeknights, refereeing local high school basketball games. He raised his family with his loving wife, Lois, in Northern Virginia, before retiring to Skidaway Island, Ga.
Ed was predeceased by his wife, Lois Mae Waters. He is survived by his beloved daughters, Laurie (Tom) and Cathy, his son Greg (Viola), from a previous marriage, his eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many friends. His grandkids very fondly remember many adventures with Pop-Pop on Skidaway Island in the “golf ball rider,” hunting for alligators, snakes, lizards and birds. In addition to his athletic prowess, Ed was a gifted bridge player, writer, singer, and dancer. He will be remembered for his big heart and fun-loving spirit, his abundant patience and unwavering kindness. His beautiful life will be celebrated with a private service in Mountain City at a later date.