Dr. Francois Rene Charles

Dr. Francois Rene Charles was born January 29, 1932, in the city of Les Cayes, Haiti. He was the loving son of Locianie St. Juste. After attending college, he went on to graduate from Universite D’Haiti Medical School in 1957, and so began his amazing career as a Doctor. He came to the United States in 1959 to do his Internship and Residency in Internal Medicine at Homer G. Phillips hospital. In 1970 he received his license to practice medicine in Missouri. He was especially proud of being certified as a diplomate in the specialty of Internal Medicine in July 1971 and recertified in October 1977.

Dr. Charles was on staff at many hospitals in St. Louis, including but not limited to Homer G. Phillips, Central Medical Center, Deaconess/Forest Park Hospital, Christian Hospital, Alexian Brothers, St. Luke’s East and West, and DePaul. He chose to set up his private practice in North St. Louis, where he could serve those who were often neglected or forgotten. The Union Diagnostic Clinic was affectionately known as “the Green building on Union” for a number of years, and not only served countless patients but was a place of mentorship for many physicians emerging in their careers.

Although he was a member of many organizations, the one closest to his heart was AMHE (Haitian American Physicians Abroad). He facilitated getting many young Haitian physicians to secure proper medical training and education at Homer G Phillips hospital.

Among the multitude of awards he received, he was especially touched when the Missouri State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts recognized him as an exceptional Missouri Citizen, honoring his incredible 40 years of service to the St. Louis Community in 2010.

But more than his service to the community, Francois’ main source of joy and inspiration in life was his love for his family, beginning with his marriage to Gladys, affectionately known as “Ma Femme”, in 1959. They created a loving home for their children: Dominique, Danielle, Francois Jr., and David. They were generous in opening their arms and hearts to the thriving Haitian Community in St. Louis. Many gatherings were held at “Charlie’s” house; his smile and laughter warmed every heart. Many evenings you could find him either at the Symphony enjoying classical music or enjoying his weekly spirited card game with his “poker club” members. And who could forget his beloved home study, overflowing with books, records, CDs, and Great Courses DVDs!

On March 8, 2022, Francois died, surrounded by family. He continues to live in the hearts of his beloved wife of 63 years, Gladys; daughters Dominique and Danielle (Tim, Elana, Lukas, and Alexander); sons Francois Jr. (Gina, Lachlan and Sloan); and David, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, colleagues and dear friends.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for the many kind expressions of sympathy. Your support is deeply appreciated.

A Public Visitation for Francois will be held Sunday, March 13, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Kriegshauser Mortuary-West Chapel, 9450 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63132, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Food for the Poor, specifically for their Haiti Appeal.

https://www.foodforthepoor.org/help-now/current-appeals/

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kriegshausermortuary.com for the CHARLES family.