Obituary

In Loving Memory of Charles Harris Jr.
“Lil Charlie”      “Charlie”
May 12, 1965 – June 19, 2026

With profound sadness and immeasurable love, we announce the passing of Charles Harris Jr., affectionately known to family and friends as “Lil Charlie” or simply “Charlie.” Charles departed this life on June 19, 2026, at the age of 61.

Born and raised in New York City, Charlie was a proud Harlem native whose life was defined by service, loyalty, and love for his family. He dedicated his professional life to helping others as a Pre-Trial Counselor with the Montgomery County Department of Corrections, where he was respected for his compassion, integrity, and commitment to those he served.

Charlie attended military school during his junior high school years, an experience that helped shape the discipline and resilience that would characterize his life. He went on to attend Rice High School in Harlem, where he excelled both academically and athletically. A talented basketball player, Charlie earned recognition as a letterman throughout high school. His love of the game continued at Mansfield University, where he played collegiate basketball for two years before completing his Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree at the University of the District of Columbia.

To know Charlie was to know someone who embraced life with curiosity and enthusiasm. He loved to travel and cherished every opportunity to spend time with those he loved most. Whether watching basketball, football, tennis, or golf, Charlie was an avid sports fan who rarely missed a big game. He had a passion for fashion and was always impeccably dressed, taking pride in his style and his ever-growing collection of shoes.

Charlie also had an inquisitive mind. He enjoyed lively conversations about history and current events and was well known for his fascination with conspiracy theories. His remarkable memory for historical events often amazed those around him, making him the person family and friends turned to whenever a debate needed settling.

Among Charlie’s greatest joys were his beloved cats, Kitten and Mimi, who were treasured members of his family. Their companionship brought him comfort, laughter, and unconditional love over the years. After losing Mimi and then Kitten, Charlie found peace in knowing they would one day be reunited. In accordance with his wishes, their remains will be laid to rest with him—a final reflection of the enduring love he shared with his faithful companions.

Though he and his former wife, Yvette Godfrey Harris, later divorced after many years of marriage, they shared many meaningful years together. Charlie had no children, but he poured his love into his family, friendships, and community. He was the kind of person who quietly showed up when someone needed support, always willing to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or simply listen.

Charlie was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Dolores Harris and Charles Harris Sr. While his passing leaves an unimaginable void, we find comfort in knowing he is reunited with them in eternal peace.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted sister, Kim Harris, his God Children Jayda and Julian Carlton, his last living Aunts Ophelia Brown and Delmarie Lynch, along with a host of loving family members, lifelong friends, colleagues, and all whose lives were enriched by his kindness, generosity, wisdom, and unmistakable sense of humor.

Charlie’s legacy is one of service, dignity, resilience, and love. He will be remembered for the lives he touched, the conversations he sparked, the laughter he shared, and the unwavering love he had for his family. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Spring Hill Cemetery, Charleston, WV.

Visitation will begin one hour prior at Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, 1118 Virginia Street East, Charleston. The procession will leave the funeral home at 9:45 a.m.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements