Obituary

James Deamus Charlton (nicknamed “Butch”), beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on March 10th, 2024. He was 81 years old.

Butch was born on October 12th, 1942, in Fairview, WV, the son of Howard and Ruby “Fern” Charlton. From his earliest days, Butch exhibited a remarkable sense of kindness, strength, and a deep commitment to his loved ones and the Lord.

Butch was a devoted husband, sharing a lifetime of love, laughter, and companionship with his beloved spouse and soulmate, Beverly Charlton. Their bond was a testament to the power of enduring love and mutual respect, surpassing 60 years of marriage. Butch described Beverly as the “love of his life”, and was so proud to be her husband.

Throughout his life, Butch exemplified unwavering dedication to his family. He was a loving and supportive father, always there to offer guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love. His children remember him as a pillar of strength, raising them to value honesty, integrity, and hard-work.

As a grandfather and great-grandfather, Butch delighted in the company of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. He shared his wisdom, humor, and warmth, leaving them with a plethora of one-liners and funny quips to remember him by. His grandchildren have fond memories playing ping-pong, making fudge and pepperoni rolls, and reading endless books together.

In addition to his devotion to family, Butch had a passion for sports and natural athleticism, playing football, basketball, and baseball in his younger years. In his high school years, he was offered an athletic contract to play professional baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates, as well as a scholarship to play football at West Virginia University, but instead chose to play basketball on a scholarship at Fairmont State College to be closer to family. Butch also picked up tennis later in life. His tennis friends may remember his competitive spirit and fondness of the color ‘neon green’, which he could often be found wearing both on and off the court.

Butch was known for his confectionary talents, particularly his ability to make fudge. He enjoyed making it just as much as he enjoyed gifting it to friends and family. In his final years, Butch enjoyed his time with his friends, especially Marty Hartman and Craig Blakeman. Butch will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his wife Beverly Charlton and their two children, James Charlton (Patricia Charlton) and Deedee Younis (Mark Younis), grandchildren Blake Younis (Zach AbuRahma), Adam Younis (Susan Younis), Amanda Drosopoulos (Matthew Drosopoulos), Chandler Kristy (Chet Kristy), Olivia Younis (Domenic Cipollone), Grant Charlton, and Cassie Sistare (Michael Sistare). He is also survived by great-grandchildren Vivian and Lily Younis, Scarlett and Andressa Kristy, Dexter AbuRahma, and Wesley and Xander Drosopoulos. Butch was preceded in death by his sister Bonnie Jean Mills, brother Howard Charlton, parents Howard and Ruby “Fern” Charlton, and in-laws John and Bessie Cristy.

Memorial service to celebrate Butch’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 16th, 2024, at Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, 1118 Virginia Street East, Charleston, WV.

Visitation will begin one hour prior at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to New Horizons Church, P.O. Box 18217, South Charleston, WV 25303, in honor of Butch’s memory.

Butch touched the lives of many with his warmth, generosity, and unwavering love. May he rest in peace, knowing that he will be forever cherished and remembered.

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

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.