Charlotte Ann Hartt's Obituary
Charlotte Hartt, 81, of Longview, Texas, was born January 8, 1944 (she was always excited to be the “birthday twin” to Elvis Presley) and stepped into the arms of Jesus on June 27, 2025. While we are truly heartbroken to say goodbye, we are also so thankful for the life she lived and the love she gave so freely.
Charlotte is leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication. Born in Laredo, Texas, Charlotte grew up working at the Dairy Queen that her family owned, proudly mastering the art of making the ‘perfect ice cream cone’. After living in the Houston area and later moving to East Texas, Charlotte made Longview her home for over 55 years.
She met her soulmate, Wayne Hartt, while attending Stephen F. Austin University, and they married in 1963, sharing 58 fulfilling years together until Wayne’s passing. Charlotte earned her degree in Home Economics and teaching certificate, and after raising her two daughters, Shelly and Kim, she returned to education, teaching special needs children at Jefferson ISD for over 20 years. Her children and students knew her for her boundless creativity, encouragement, and unconditional love.
Charlotte’s deep faith was evident in her dedication to Sovereign Life Fellowship (formally Liberty Baptist), where she was an active member of the women’s group. Her Christian values guided her as a mother and grandmother, and she was affectionately known as “Mimi” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Charlotte had a way of making people feel safe and accepted. It did not matter if you were family, a lifelong friend, or someone she had just met—she had a way of making you feel seen and cared for. She loved people deeply and fiercely with kindness, compassion, and completeness.
She gave everything she had to her kids and grandkids. Being a mom and Mimi wasn’t just part of her life—it was at the center of who she was. She led with quiet strength, prayed without ceasing, and constantly reminded us that God was with us through it all. Whether we were in a good season or a hard one, she kept going with a strength that clearly came from Jesus.
More than anything, Charlotte would want people to know the love of Christ that changed her life. She believed that God's grace is for everyone—that no one is too far gone, and nothing is too broken for Him to heal.
She believed deeply in the words Jesus spoke when He said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” John 14:5
A true homemaker at heart, Charlotte had a knack for making everything beautiful. From sewing to refinishing furniture, she had a passion for creating something special for those she loved. Her favorite moments were spent making birthdays and Christmases magical, especially with her signature gift boxes — lovingly filled with handpicked treasures for each family member.
Charlotte cherished every moment spent with family and friends — whether it was cooking big family dinners, shopping with her children and grandchildren or celebrating special occasions like New Year’s Eve each year at the Williams’ house. She had a deep love for music, especially Elvis, and never missed a chance to share a laugh and do a little shimmy and shake with her kids and grandkids.
Charlotte leaves behind a family who will carry her memory in their hearts forever. She is survived by her beloved aunt, Mary Gordon; her daughters, Shelly (and husband Hugh) and Kim Rhodes; and David Rhodes. Her treasured grandchildren — Mackenzie, Mason (wife Cristina), and Hunter — and great-grandchildren Ivee, Owen, and Edie Jo.
She also leaves behind her dearest friend of over 55 years, Laverne Williams — her “fun, crazy girl” and confidant in laughter, adventure, and a sisterhood that ran deeper than blood — along with her longtime friend of more than 50 years, Jean Challis, whose friendship brought joy and warmth to many seasons of her life. Charlotte is additionally survived by her brother in law, Tony Bumpus, nephews Jeff and Brian and her half-siblings, Debbie Oltmann, Tanni Kirkland, and Gary Henry.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Arabella of Longview. Their loving care, support, and fun-filled activities provided comfort, laughter, and safety to Charlotte these last few years. While Arabella was just one small part of her journey, the staff became like family to us, and we are deeply grateful for the compassion they showed.
A graveside service will be held at 10 AM Monday, June 30, 2025, at Shiloh Cemetery in Mt. Enterprise.
In lieu of flowers, we’d love for you to bring or donate school supplies in Charlotte’s memory. She had such a heart for kids, and nothing made her happier than helping them grow and learn. To honor that, we will be collecting supplies to give to Jefferson ISD—continuing the impact she made in the lives of so many students.
What’s your fondest memory of Charlotte?
What’s a lesson you learned from Charlotte?
Share a story where Charlotte's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Charlotte you’ll never forget.
How did Charlotte make you smile?
