Charles E. Gettings, 69, of St. Louis died on Friday, March 17, 2006, at his home.

He was born Jan. 21, 1937, in Piggott, the son of John and Clara Vaughn Gettings.

He was the beloved husband of Velma Smith Gettings.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Melvin Gettings; and four sisters, Lorene Raines, Kathern Young, Martha Gettings and Betty Gettings.

He is survived by his wife, Velma; four sons, Steve, Neal, Richard and Joseph; one daughter, Bonnie; three brothers, Wilburn Gettings of Piggott, Jo Gettings of Splendora, Texas, and LaVell Gettings of Porum, Okla.; five sisters, Narene Howard of Pevely, Mo., Christine Clifford and Alice Island, both of St. Louis, Maggie Jones of Topeka, Kans., and June Neeley of McDougal; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many relatives and friends.

Kutis Funeral Home of St. Louis was in charge of the arrangements.