Cecil Glenn Trantham III's Obituary
Cecil Glenn Trantham III, 71, of Gainesville, Florida, passed away on November 10, 2024, at UF Health Hospital, surrounded by family holding his hand and praying over him. He was born on November 24, 1952, in Bogalusa, Louisiana, to Cecil Trantham Jr. and Gertrude Trantham Lewis.
Known as “Glenn,” he grew up in several states and spent his early years as a free spirit, traveling with is guitar and a duffel bag, sharing his musical talents, and seeking new adventures. In 1978, he secured a 45-record deal for his song “Synthetic Man.” Glenn loved music in every form ----- listening, playing, and creating---- and was immensely proud of the 240 melodies he composed.
After years on the road, he found his “soft place to fall” with his wife Linda Trantham, and her family. Settling down, Glenn embraced a simple life with Linda and her children, treasuring every moment he could, and spending time tinkering and “piddling.” As a national truck driver covering 48 states, he devoted himself to building a life they could all be proud of. Even after enduring massive strokes and heart attacks, Glenn----thanks to Linda’s dedicated care---- continued to wear his smile as wide as his heart.
He was preceded in death by his father, Cecil Trantham Jr.; his mother, Gertrude Lewis; his brother, Frank Trantham; and his beloved son, Jonathan Sokoloff. He is survived by his dear wife, Linda Trantham, and his daughters, Tracy Goolsby and Jennifer Roach, who will forever remember him as a soft-spoken man with a kind heart, and as someone who savored every meal shared with loved ones.
A private memorial service will be held for close family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Studio Percussion, Inc., a charitable 501 (c) (3) organization. Music was his life’s backbone, and he couldn’t imagine life without it.
He will be deeply missed but always remembered for his unwavering love of the Florida Gators (in all kinds of weather) and for the joy he brought to Linda Trantham and all who knew him deeply.
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