Charles Eugene Southerland

Charles Eugene Southerland, born on April 9, 1938, in Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away on October 30, 2024, at the age of 86. He lived life well with dedication to his family and his faith in God. Having first served in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in Germany, his journey continued in the United States Navy. That led him to Newport News/Portsmouth, Virginia where he met Rose Marie Jones, the love of his life. They shared an incredible 62-year marriage.

Charles's military service, which included service in Vietnam, exemplified his devotion to serving others, leading to an honorable discharge after over 13 years of dedication. He then returned to his roots in East Tennessee, where he began his employment at Tennessee Eastman Company. He utilized his GI Bill benefits to further his education, earning an associate's degree from East Tennessee State University via Steed College.

As a father, Charles passed on his work ethic to his three sons and six grandchildren. He took immense pride in his role as a family man, sharing his wisdom and values. His involvement in the Lighthouse Church in Kingsport for over six decades exemplified his love for God and his fellow man. Despite battling kidney disease for fifteen years, he remained active, driven by a deep faith that gave him the strength to face life's challenges.

Charles leaves behind his loving wife, Rose, his sons Shannon and wife Amy, Stephen and wife Lora, and Michael and wife Jenny, as well as six grandchildren, Riley Southerland, Landon Southerland and wife Molly, Hannah and husband Shane McCracken, Brock Southerland and fiancée Aubrey, Abbey and husband Bob Whitfield, and Emily and husband Mike Sanders. He adored his five great-grandchildren, the latest born just a week before his passing. He is survived by a sister in Johnson City, Shirley Britt, and nieces Karen Self and Susan Pauff among other extended family. In cherished memory of Charles, his friends and family are invited to honor him at a celebration of life service to be announced later. His final resting place will be the Mountain Home Cemetery in Johnson City, where he will receive the honors befitting a veteran.

To continue Charles's legacy of compassion and community support, contributions in his memory may be directed to the Kingsport Lions Club, P.O. Box 3366, Kingsport, TN 37664. All memorials will aid the victims of the recent flooding in East Tennessee, extending Charles's spirit of generosity to those in need.