Charles "Troy" Frank Townsend

Charles “Troy” Frank Townsend, 79, passed away on August 25, 2026, surrounded by his family. Troy was born in Bedford, Pennsylvania, to John Townsend and Mae Ruth Dennis, and was the stepson of Marlene Townsend. He was raised in Naples, Florida, where he was quarterback for the Naples High School football team and graduated in 1966. A proud United States Marine and Vietnam veteran, Troy served from 1966 to 1970. He later continued his life of service in law enforcement, including with the West Palm Beach Police Department’s motorcycle squad and the Lee County Sheriff’s Department. He was also a businessman and active in his community as a Mason, member of the Sons of the American Revolution, and through the Leesburg Chamber of Commerce and Sunset Rotary. Troy married Lucy Gayle Townsend on July 20, 1974, and they recently celebrated 52 years of marriage. Above all else, Troy loved his family. He was happiest when everyone was together and especially loved traveling and making memories with them. He was also known for his sense of humor—sometimes the way Troy told a joke was even funnier than the joke itself. He was the proud father of three daughters, Kristi Townsend, Kourtney Sulock, and the late Kassie Gannon, and beloved “Grampy” to Anthony Blaine Perry, Carter Braxton Perry, Anthony Gannon Jr., Claudia Mae Vaughn, and Mason Lyle Vaughn. He is also survived by his sons-in-law, Anthony Gannon and Eric Sulock. Troy’s passing came six months after the unexpected loss of his daughter Kassie. His family finds comfort in believing that father and daughter are together again. Years ago, one of his daughters gave him a small framed saying: “There’s a special place in heaven for the father of three girls.” Troy kept it on his nightstand for years, and it remained beside him through his final days. His family would like to believe those words were true. A viewing will be held Tuesday, September 1, from 5–7 p.m. at Beyers Funeral Home in Leesburg. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, September 2, at 10 a.m. at Heritage Community Church in Fruitland Park, followed immediately by a reception at the American Legion in Fruitland Park. Burial with military honors will take place Thursday, September 3, at 11 a.m. at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home of Leesburg, Florida.

Charles "Troy" Frank Townsend

February 27, 1947 - August 25, 2026