Charles Edward Townsend's Obituary
Charles Edward Townsend, 82, peacefully passed away on Sunday, March 5, 2017, in Longview, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 12, 1935 in Dodson, Louisiana to Elmo M. Townsend and Lessie Creel Townsend. Charles grew up in Winnfield, Louisiana. After graduating from Winnfield High School in 1952, he attended Louisiana Tech University at Ruston on a football scholarship, majoring in electrical engineering. Charles joined the U.S. Army in 1958, and served until 1960. He protected our shores with the NIKE Missile Program at the base in Rehoboth, Massachusetts.
In 1960, he met, and 2 months later, married Joan Robichaux, of New Iberia, LA. They were happily married for 56 years. Their marriage was often imitated, as their love for one another was absolute.
The son of a well-respected furniture maker, Charles enjoyed making wooden creations for his family and friends. Also, you could find him gardening, tending his roses, or making fresh sourdough bread. He was a serial entrepreneur, starting numerous successful business, some of which his sons still operate. Charles is loved by all and will be remembered for his jovial charm, warm heart and giving disposition.
Charles was a member of Alpine Church of Christ for 23 years, where he was an elder for 8 years. In 1976, he graduated from the White’s Ferry Road School of Biblical Studies and began preaching the gospel in Louisiana, South Dakota, Arkansas, and Texas.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jimmy Townsend, his daughter, Cathy Jo Townsend, his granddaughter Sarah Jo Hedrick and great-granddaughter, Layla Jo Hedrick.
Charles is survived by his spouse, Joan Robichaux Miller Townsend of Longview, TX; his sons David Charles Townsend and wife Jana, Philip Edward Townsend and wife Lisa, and Stephen Ross Townsend, all of Longview, TX and daughters Connie Miller of Ft. Worth and Donna Hedrick and husband Mike, of Memphis, TN.; his sister, Eleanor Hawkins of Lafayette LA.; his grandchildren, Christopher Michael Hedrick, Leesa Michelle Hedrick Gaines and her husband Bryan, Meagan Dawn Townsend Hays and her husband Joshua, Courtney Lynn Townsend, Tyler Philip Townsend and his wife Shelbie, Ryan David Townsend, and Brooklyn Hope Townsend; his great-grandchildren, Isaac David Lay, Holland Claire Hedrick, and Luke Joshua Hays.
A celebration of life will be held at Alpine Church of Christ, 610 E Loop 281, Longview, TX, 75605 on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Rader Funeral Home of Longview. The family will be greeting friends and relatives at this time.
What’s your fondest memory of Charles?
What’s a lesson you learned from Charles?
Share a story where Charles' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Charles you’ll never forget.
How did Charles make you smile?