Charles Wade Anderson

Charles Wade Anderson, 74, transitioned peacefully at home on October 27, 2023 in Glennville, GA.

Charles was born in Glennville, GA, on June 9, 1949 to the late Sam Charles Anderson and Louise Lewis Anderson. The only son and 2nd oldest of their six children, Charles was named Charlie Wade Anderson and was affectionately called "Charlie Way" by his parents, siblings, and those closest to him. He later changed his name to "Charles" in adulthood.

In early life, Charles' family made their home in the Sandhill community in Long County, where he attended primary school during times of segregation. He graduated from segregated Walker High School in Long County. In high school, Charles was an avid basketball player. As an athlete, he played for many years well into adulthood, and later added martial arts, weight-lifting, and golf to stay in shape.

At 18 years old, Charles was drafted into and served an extended term in the United States Air Force and in the Vietnam War. Four years later, in 1971, he returned from war to Glennville, GA. He met and married Jo Ann Arthur Anderson on October 13, 1973. Together, they had four children, and settled in Glennville, GA to raise their family.

Shortly after being honorably discharged from the Air Force, Charles enlisted in the Georgia Air National Guard 117th Air Con Squadron, Stealth Control based at Hunter Army AirField in Savannah, GA. He also worked as a pipe fitter for Rayonier, Inc, a paper mill in Jesup, GA. During his term as a reservist, Charles visited many US states, various countries, and served on special forces for the military. He was stationed in Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm and in Norway for a short time when his children were still small.

Always a smart and determined person, when he was stationed in Texas, he taught himself Spanish, and spoke it fluently. To add to his talents, Charles was an amazing artist. His drawings and paintings were featured in an art gallery at the Glennville Public Library and the local newspaper, which made him and his family extremely proud. As a Vietnam veteran, he later became a member of The American Legion. Charles' work tenure led him to retire in 2005 as a Supervisor at Rayonier, and later, a decorated retired veteran as a National Guard Technical Sergeant, earning many medals and recognition for his contributions.

After a hard-working career as a soldier and civilian, Charles spent his post-retirement years, enjoying life and time with his grandchildren. His most joyous time with them was during the holidays and attending their various school and athletic events. He was beyond proud of the family he had created and nurtured. Charles was committed to his family as a strong provider and husband, a loving son, doting father and grandfather, dedicated brother, and a dependable friend. His seemingly "larger than life" and stoic demeanor made his "solid as a rock" presence felt and appreciated everywhere he went, and in every life he impacted. His entire community of family and friends grieve his loss immensely and will miss him infinitely.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents Sam and Louise Anderson, and his 2nd oldest daughter, Meagan, who passed in 2020. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jo Ann, his children, Derrek (Tonja), Ashlee, and Whitney; Sisters: Etrendel (Michael) Green, Marilyn Brown, Virginia Long, Marlene Anderson, and Katrina Hagan; and two half-sisters, Rosemary James Porter and Carolyn Hudson, from his father's previous marriage; grandchildren, Zynasia, ZaRiah, Josiah, ZaRayna, Kyndall, ZaDerius, Noah, Krystian, Greysen and Naiema. Also counted amongst his brood, are 2 bonus grandchildren, Asheera and Malia Davis, raised for a short time by Meagan. In addition, Charles leaves behind special cousins: Debra Jean Gooden, Ivan Marimon, Billy Marimon, and Beverly Marimon; and Mr. Connell Shaw, Mr. Jessie Rhodes, and Mr. James Kent, whom he considered close friends and brothers. Left to cherish his memory, are a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives who knew and loved him.