He attended Lamar College in Beaumont, Texas and attended Texas A&M University, graduating in 1948 with a Bachelor in Science Degree in Chemical Engineering. He was employed by Magnolia Petroleum Company, Beaumont, Texas, 1948-1952.
He joined Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont, Texas in 1952 and served as President and General Manager, opening Forest Lawn Funeral Home in January 1973. He also served as President and General Manager of Memory Gardens of Jefferson County, Texas. These properties were all sold to Service Corporation International in 1990.
He served as President of the Texas Cemeteries Association in 1962-1963 and was President of the American Cemetery Association in 1972. In Beaumont he served on many charitable and civic boards. He was a Past President of the Rotary Club of Beaumont and was a director of the First City National Bank. He was a member and Past Chairman of the Board of Trinity United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Gloria, daughter Ann Cobb and husband Robert Cobb, son David Locke and wife Eve, four grandchildren, Will Cobb, Katie Cobb Stelly, Blakey Locke, Carol Locke, and eight great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank Charles's caregivers, Pete St. Clair, Marcela Rodriguez, Angela Rodriguez, Alicia Barrera, Melody Mondy, and Emily Velayo.
Private family burial services will be held on June 4, 2024 in the morning, with a memorial service at 10:30 AM to follow at Trinity United Methodist Church, 3430 Harrison Avenue, Beaumont, Texas with a reception immediately following in the church parlor.
Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 3430 Harrison Avenue, Beaumont, Texas or the Foundation for Southeast Texas, 700 North Street, Beaumont, Texas 77701.
