Charles James

Charles William James, 78, passed away on November 28, 2024. Known to his friends as Chuck, he was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. After growing up in Texas, Chuck joined the United States Air force at the age of 17. He honorably served as an electrician before switching to a civilian career as a computer engineer. When he began his career, computers were the size of a room and by the time he retired computers could fit in a pocket. Chuck earned many accolades throughout his over 40 years of engineering.

Chuck enjoyed keeping up with electronic technology from building transistor radios as a teenager to flying drones with his grandchildren. He put his tech skills to use whether it was building a TV for the family or putting on a dazzling light show for the holidays. He was known to be able to fix almost anything except balloons but he could replace those.

Being prepared was how Chuck took care of his loved ones. He made sure there was gas in the tank and air in the tires. He knew which tool was needed for a job. He had a solder iron, duct tape or oil can ready to make a repair. He always showed up a little early for important events and thought just being on time was the same as arriving late.

Chuck had many hobbies including playing card games, dancing, shooting pool and learning about new technology. He enjoyed the outdoors even more than the indoors, from hiking in the mountains to relaxing on the beach. He and his wife always had an extensive garden. His job often involved travel so he and his family took the opportunity to explore new places. To celebrate his sixtieth birthday, he went skydiving. He liked adventures big or small.

The greatest love of his life was Betty, his wife of 56 years. Together, they made life fun for themselves and those around them. Chuck is also survived by his daughter Cynthia, son-in-law Jack and his grandchildren Victoria, Andrew, Rebecca. Chuck was preceded in death by his daughter Dawn Louise. Chuck will be deeply missed until the family can be together again.

Chuck's family will receive friends from 1:30pm until 2pm with a Celebration of Life Service at 2pm on Wednesday December 4th in the Ridge Chapel of Companion Funeral Home located at 2412 Georgetown Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37311.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Chuck or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service and the Cody family are honored to assist the James family with these arrangements.