Glen Ray Bartlett

On the afternoon of Sunday, September 8, 2024, Glen Ray Bartlett, 84, of Old Fort, passed away at Mission Hospital in Asheville.

He was born at home in Old Fort on March 24, 1940 to the late Horace Bartlett and Essie Bean Bartlett. 

Glen had a dedicated career in textiles, where he spent many years contributing to the industry at Old Fort Finishing and later at Beacon Manufacturing. In addition to his work in textiles, he was a devoted farmer, spending countless hours cultivating the land and working closely with cattle and hay. Known for his remarkable green thumb, Glen tended to a 40-acre field, where he gardened with passion. His generosity was evident as he often shared the fruits of his labor with others, and he touched many lives by doing so. Glen's love for farming and gardening was not just a hobby; it was a true reflection of his character and values. Glen also found immense joy in spending time with family. He was a father figure and a cherished “papaw” to many who were not related by blood. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Wilson Bartlett; granddaughter, Story Bartlett; great-grandson, Weston Kingsley; four brothers, Bernie Bartlett, Dewey Bartlett, Lee Bartlett, and Clifford Bartlett; and one infant sister.

Left to cherish his memory are four children, Gene Bartlett (Lynn), Barbara Banner (Mike), Ralph Bartlett (Kerry), and David Bartlett (Autumn); ten grandchildren, Kelsey Kingsley (Jon), Audi Bartlett, Tiffany Morgan (BJ), Morgan Burnette (JJ), Shasta Martin (Wes), Chris Bartlett (Emily), Dawson Bartlett, Cooper Bartlett, Sadie Bartlett, and Chapel Bartlett; sixteen great-grandchildren, Teaguen, Knox, Tyson, Malie, Chevy, Tyler, Reagan, Layla, Paisley, Oaklee, Everly, Kaida, Jaylee, Jaxson, Jensen, and Adalie; one brother, Charles Bartlett (Rochelle); and a number of dear nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. in the Beam Celebration Center. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Jerry McClain officiating. Burial will be at Cherry Springs Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, it would be Glen’s desire that you donate to a local food charity or to someone in need in his memory.