Dr. Charles "Charlie" Nicholas Hubbard, M.D., passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, one day after celebrating his 77th birthday. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, orthopedic surgeon, and lifelong learner, Charles was known for his quick wit, insatiable curiosity, and love of storytelling.

Born on January 15, 1948, in Newnan, Georgia, Charles was the youngest son of Richard Buel "Slick" and Eleanor Sheats Hubbard. From his mother, he inherited a tireless work ethic, a love of music, and a thirst for knowledge. From his father, he gained a quick wit, a warm smile, and a passion for baseball and golf. Among his fondest memories was attending the Masters Tournament with his dad "back when you could walk up and buy a ticket."

Whether in school or sports, Charles gave his all to every endeavor. After graduating from Newnan High School, he earned degrees from Vanderbilt University and the Medical College of Georgia. He served as a general medical officer in the U.S. Army before completing his orthopedic residency at the Willis Campbell Clinic in Memphis, Tenn.

As an orthopedic surgeon, Charles left a lasting legacy. He served on the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons' Board of Counselors for six years and held various leadership roles in the Georgia Orthopedic Society (GOS), including president. He also launched and edited the GOS newsletter for over 25 years. In 2019, he was honored with the GOS' Dr. Jim Funk Award for outstanding career contributions to orthopedic surgery in Georgia. One of his greatest honors was being invited to join the 20th Century Orthopedic Society.

Charles often said his greatest achievement was winning the heart of his wife, Marilyn Merrell Hubbard. Their love story began at age 13 during a trip to Europe and continued as they married in 1971. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and shared adventures.

The couple moved to Carrollton in 1981, where Charles became the third partner in the Carrollton Orthopedic Clinic, now OrthoWest. He remained an active member of the Tanner Health Systems Medical Staff for over 35 years.

Family was Charles' greatest joy. He cherished time with his children and grandchildren, whether at the beach or playing baseball in the backyard. Known affectionately as "Cap" by his grandchildren, he and Marilyn crisscrossed Ga. and Tenn. to support their sporting events.

Charles also gave generously to his community. He regularly volunteered as the sideline physician for UWG and Trojan football games, followed by Saturday morning "bump and bruise" free clinics. He also conducted the Scoliosis Clinic at the Health Department.

On a national level, he and Marilyn traveled to Washington, D.C., to lobby for improved access to care, patient rights, and Medicare and Medicaid reforms.

Charles' curiosity fueled a variety of hobbies, from gardening to oil painting to barbequing. His greatest passion was golf, and he helped lead the renovation of the Sunset Hills course and clubhouse while serving on the Board of Directors. He was also a member of the Wade Hampton Golf Club in Cashiers, NC.

Charles was also a member of numerous groups including the men's ensemble at First Methodist Church, "The Honorable Company" Golf League, and a group of history enthusiasts named "The Carroll County Irregulars."

Charles is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marilyn; his children and their spouses, Charles Ellis (Sara) Hubbard of Atlanta, Ga., Benjamin Lee (Christy) Hubbard of Columbus, Ga., and Merrell Hubbard (Wilson) McGinness of Lookout Mountain, Tn.; and his grandchildren, Jack Thomas Hubbard, Virginia Merrell Hubbard, Carson Lee Hubbard, Samuel Bailey Hubbard, Lydia Moore McGinness, and Ellis Louise McGinness. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Buell (Janet) Hubbard III; his niece, Elizabeth (Alan) Hook; and his nephew, Dr. Richard Buell (Sonia) Hubbard IV.

The family will receive friends at Almon Funeral Home on Monday, January 27, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Carrollton First Methodist Church, with Rev. Travis Sneed officiating and eulogies given by Charlie Hubbard, Ben Hubbard, Merrell McGinness, and Dr. Frank Kelly.

Interment will follow at Carroll Memory Gardens with Rev. Joy Griffin officiating and military honors provided by the U.S. Army.

Pallbearers are Charlie Hubbard, Ben Hubbard, Wilson McGinness, Richard Hubbard IV, Casey Vance, Alan Hook, and Dr. Jeb Beckham. Honorary pallbearers include Dr. Tony Colpini, Dr. Joe Parrish, Dr. Jim Beaty, Dr. Ralph Fleck,  Dr. Frank Kelly, Tommy Green, John Richmond, John Mollar, Wayne Garner, Dr. Don Bohannon, Bobby Lee, and Mason Hawkins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Carrollton First Methodist Church.

Messages of condolence may be shared online at www.almonfuneralhome.com.

Almon Funeral Home of Carrollton is in charge of arrangements.