Charles Newsome

Charles (Charlie) Hale Newsome, 77, of Jacksonville, FL passed away on November 21, 2016 in Community Hospice. He was born on December 8, 1938 in Jacksonville, FL to his late father, Leslie L. Newsome and mother, Irene James Sewell.

Survived by his wife of over 40 years, Valita (Val) Newsome; stepson, Eric C. Williamson; adopted daughter, Rosalba C. Bowditch; brother, L. Leonard Newsome; sister, Donna Lynn (Bruce) Lynam; brothers-in-law, Richard E. (Jan) Conrad and W.E. (Louise) Byers; sister-in-law, Margaret Godbold; granddaughters, Ericka (Dustin) Taylor and Madisson Bowditch; great-grandchildren, Erick, Alec, Abby and Kelena Taylor; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

After graduation from Robert E. Lee in 1956, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy for 3 years and the U.S. Air Force for 25 years. He retired on July 1, 1987 after serving his country with dedication, devotion, and honor for 28 years. He remained a member of the AFSA Chapter 559 in Jacksonville until his death.

Charlie was a member of Mandarin United Methodist Church where he served as Chairman of the Worship Committee for four years, member of the Church Council for several years, a greeter, a host for funeral receptions, a member of the Mail-out Committee and always saying “yes” when asked to help. He was a proud member of the Senior Group, The Golden Triangle.

Charlie was an avid square dancer for 48 years until his health forced him to be a “spectator” in 2015. He was joined in this activity with his beloved wife, Val, following their marriage in 1976. They danced overseas and in many states, and the last 29 years in Florida. They served on the WASCA Executive Board 3 years, were Presidents of Northeast Florida Association 2 years, and 5 years on the Florida Federation of Square Dancers Executive Board, ending with their presidency in 2011. They were Chairmen of 2 Northeast Fall Festivals, 1996 and 2005, selected as Dance Couple of the Year in 1996, and served as Chairman of Florida State Square & Round Dance Convention in 2005. In 2012 they were inducted into the Florida State Square Dance Hall of Fame.

He loved life, was a devoted husband, father and papa; and he will be missed by many family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 8, in Mandarin United Methodist Church, 11270 San Jose Blvd. with reception to follow. Inurnment will be at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, December 9, at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218 (lane 3).

Memorials may be made to Mandarin United Methodist Church Debt Reduction (address above) or to Wreaths Across America, www.wreathsacrossamericajacksonville.com/sponsorships/.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.