Obituary for Mr. Eric Bradford Cargal

Mr. Eric Bradford Cargal, age 50, of Dalton, Georgia, departed this life on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at a local hospital.

Eric was born on October 23, 1975, in Dalton, Georgia. He spent most of his life in the construction field, where he took pride in building and fixing things with his hands. Outside of work, Eric found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life—spending time outdoors, casting a line while fishing, and working on his beloved old truck. Whether in the woods, by the water, or under the hood, he was most at peace surrounded by the things he loved.

Eric cherished time with his loved ones. He enjoyed gathering with family and friends, sharing stories, laughter, and creating lasting memories. A loyal fan, he rarely missed a chance to cheer on the Georgia Bulldogs and the Atlanta Falcons.

He was preceded in death by his father, Larry Bradford Cargal; his grandparents, Lewis and Joyce Yother, and Joseph and Lois Cargal.

Survivors include his daughter, Nichole Cargal (Evan Nation); his cherished granddaughter, Tilly-Mae Nation, all of Tunnel Hill, Georgia; his mother, Debra Cargal (Randy Ellison) of Dalton, Georgia; his fiancée, Melissa Gowin of Dalton, Georgia; his twin brothers, Shane (Amy) Cargal of Dublin, Ohio, and Sean (Amber) Cargal of Chatsworth, Georgia; his nieces, Lawson Cargal, Audrianna Cargal, Emmelie Cargal, and Byrklee Cargal; the mother of his daughter, Angela Hammontree of Tunnel Hill, Georgia; along with several cousins and many dear friends.

The family will receive friends at Ponders Melrose Chapel from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Monday. He will be laid to rest beside his father at West Hill Cemetery in a private graveside service following the visitation, with Mark Earnest, Shane Cargal, Sean Cargal, Wes Wimpey, Larry Johnson and Kenny Johnson honored to serve as pallbearers.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel, Dalton, Georgia.

“Your Selected Independent Funeral Home”