John Charles

John Edward Charles entered this world on October 15, 1940, in the back seat of a car on the way to Jacksonville from Murrayville, IL, and from that moment on, he kept the world on its toes until he peacefully departed for eternal paradise on December 5, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry Charles and Vada O. Pahlman. He leaves behind the love of his life, Freddie Ann; his beloved children, Leslie Burton (Eddie) and Andy (Robin); and his cherished siblings, Kenny Clarkson, Sharon Cooper (Darius), and Joe Pahlman. John was a devoted guardian angel to his grandchildren, Ashley Bratcher (Joshua), Travis Burton, Cole Charles (Kaylie), Morgan Milligan (Justin), Evan Charles, and Reagan Charles, as well as his great-grandchildren, Olivia, Mia, Kyson, and Lainey.

John’s life was a testament to unwavering passion, dedication, and love. He was a man who touched the hearts and lives of many around the world. His distinguished career began in the Air Force, where he served with honor. He later became the owner of Luckenbach of Texas Western Fashions and rose to prominent leadership positions, retiring as CEO of SmithKline Beecham Clinical Laboratories and the Crystal Cathedral Ministries. Most recently, he served as Vice-Chairman on the board of the National Trauma Intervention Program.

A true connoisseur of all things Tommy Bahama and cottage cheese, John was also an avid reader and a gifted storyteller, captivating everyone he met with tales of his extraordinary life and countless accomplishments. The stories he shared and the legacy he leaves behind are as vast as they are unforgettable.

To know John was to love John. He left an indelible mark on every life he touched, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A visitation for John will be held Sunday, December 15, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40218, followed by a funeral at 4:00 PM