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There were three phases in Charlie’s life:
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Finance: Causey began his professional life in finance on Wall Street. His hard work, insight, and diligence led to successes that allowed him to retire at age 45.
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Environmental activism: Soon after his retirement, he and Marby bought their home in Islamorada and Charlie fell in love with the marine environment here. Back country fishing became a passion.
He looked out over his beloved Florida Bay and realized “this is worth fighting for” and thus began his determination to protect our environment. His name was soon associated with a multitude of environmental efforts, serving on the boards of numerous local, state, and national environmental organizations. He worked on local Comp Plans, Board member of SFWMD, National Marine Sanctuary, Everglades restoration, and the Florida Keys Environmental Fund, saving the 18 mile stretch from 4-laning, helping to negotiate design features like the life-saving median wall between north and southbound lanes.
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Photography: Charlie became an accomplished photographer in his later years, especially focused on capturing amazing shots of birds in the Keys and Everglades. He combined his photography skills and environmental stewardship into graphic storytelling of the environmental paradise he loved.
Charlie’s long time fishing guide, Eddie Wightman: “I’ve known Charlie as a client but also a very close friend for well over 40 years…one of the finest men I’ve ever known. And the strongest of advocates for protecting our environment; always willing to fight for what is right, and with his own money. Just to protect a place he loved.”
Village Councilman Steve Friedman commented: “Charlie was a real pioneer in the conservation world. Early on, he helped educate all of us about the need to fight for clean water, giving us a head start in the effort.”
Islamorada and the Florida Keys will miss Charlie, the man who was so driven in his efforts to make a difference here and in the world.
Rest in Peace, Charlie.
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