Fred Douglas Gartrell born August 11, 1935, in Savannah, Georgia, passed away on March 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. A proud son of Savannah, he was one of nine children: Gladys, Hattie, Barnett, Catherine, Bessie, Rose, Clementine, Fred, and Albert; and grew up in a close-knit family that shaped his lifelong values of hard work, humility, and responsibility.

From age six until eighteen, Mr. Gartrell worked diligently at a neighborhood grocery store, a testament to the strong work ethic that would define his life. After graduating from Alfred E. Beach High School, he married his childhood sweetheart, Margaret Elizabeth Lawton. Their love story began in the first grade and blossomed into a remarkable 68-year marriage grounded in partnership, faith, and enduring affection.

Mr. Gartrell proudly served his country as a member of the United State Air Force for 20 years, including service during the Korean War and the Vietnam Conflict. Following his military retirement, he continued his commitment to public service through a decade of work with the United States Postal Service in Savannah.

A man of many talents and interests, he was a businessman, an avid gardener, and a lifelong lover of Savannah's history and civic life. His hobbies reflected his active and joyful spirit: gardening, bowling, bike riding, golf, and in his younger years, basketball and pool. His dedication to these pursuits earned him several awards over the years, a reflection of both his natural ability and his determination to excel in everything he did.

Deeply committed to community, Mr. Gartrell also helped found a neighborhood organization with his high school friends, the Waldorf Club, which fostered fellowship, service, and civic engagement among its members.

Above all, Mr. Gartrell was a Christian man whose faith guided every step he took. He loved his family deeply and provided for them with steadfast commitment, generosity, and quiet strength.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Sherry Winifred "Winnie" Gartrell.

As a testament to his life, he leaves behind his loving wife, Margaret Elizabeth Gartrell; his son, Fred D. Gartrell, Jr.; his daughter-in-law Rene'; his daughter Teddy Jackson; his son-in-law David; and one cherished grandchild, Fred D. Gartrell, III. He also leaves behind beloved in-laws who were an important part of his extended family: brother-in-law Todd Baker (Crystal); sisters-in-law: Emmia Ewings, Carolyn Baker, Ann Donkor (Philip), and Lucy Baker Balogun (Ola); along with a host of nieces, nephews, and their children who will carry his memory forward.

He will be remembered for his integrity, gentle humor, tireless work ethic, and the love he poured into every relationship. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he supported, and the countless lives he touched.

Public Viewing will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 3:00pm-4:00pm at Campbell and Sons Funeral Home, 2520 Bonaventure Road, Savannah, GA 31404.

Graveside Services will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 10:00am at Greenwich Cemetery, 330 Bonaventure Road, Savannah, GA 31404, where he shall rest.

Please sign our guestbook at www.campbellandsonsfuneralhome.com