Mr. Thomas E. Cheek, Jr., 55, of Lake Asbury passed away Friday, February 5, 2009. He was born in Pensacola, Florida on October 14, 1953 and had been a lifelong resident of Clay County. His daughter and family describe him as a devoted and loving father, son, brother and uncle. He was a true southern man among men and was larger than life. Known as the "Snake Man", he was passionate about nature and all animals, especially reptiles. He loved all five of his dogs and his turtle, Toby. A true earth mover, he was a respected superintendent.

He is survived by his daughter Fawn Cheek-Gonzales (Brian) of Ocoee; mother Wanda Cheek of Lake Asbury; sister Jan Pope(Doug) of Middleburg; lifelong, devoted partner Debbie Scroggie of Middleburg; and many nieces and nephews - Eric Cheek, Rickey Cheek, Travis Pope, Jana Cheek, Amy Cheek, Dakota Cheek and Gabe Lewis. He was preceded in death by his father Thomas E. Cheek, Sr. and his brother Rick L. Cheek. 

Funeral Services were held at 1pm Tuesday, February 10 at the Black Creek Church of Christ with burial in Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorials be made to Gatorland in Orlando, Florida or Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge in Orlando, Florida. 

Arrangements by Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery and Funeral Home, 2315 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL. 904-284-7720.