Jesse Charlton

Jesse Russel Charlton was a man of quiet strength, great personal warmth, and a strong devotion to family. He was born to the union of the late Jessie Cecil and Reba Charlton on September 4, 1948 in Rocky Gap, VA. He attended Tazewell County High School in Bluefied, Virginia. After integration he was transferred to the Rocky Gap High School in Bland County where he became the first African American to graduate from there. He furthered his education in Detroit, MI. He obtained an Associates Degree from Henry Ford Community College along with certifications in Industrial Management and completion of the Die Maker and Tool Engineer apprenticeship program through Chrysler Corp. He retired in 2007 from Chrysler after approximately 40 years of service.

Jesse married Brenda Gail Walker on June 23, 1973. They were blessed with 3 children Brian, Jason and Jessica. Jesse was a dedicated husband and father. He was a quiet man but he spoke loudly as he yelled instructions across the stadium at his children during their many sporting events.

Jesse accepted Christ at an early age. He attended Tynes Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church in Rocky Gap, VA. In Michigan he joined the New St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church. He was a dedicated member serving as a Deacon and Chairman of the Trustee board. In 2011 he was designated as Chairman Emeritus.

Jesse departed this life on June 4, 2013. He was preceded in death by his parents Jessie and Reba, brothers Ronald, Sherman and William and son Jesse Jr. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Brenda, children Brian (Chandra), Jason, Jessica; grandson Caleb; brothers Lowell (Helen) , Timothy (Sheila); sisters Janice Harris, Lynona French, Edna Thomas and Tina (Willie) Hunt of ; sisters in law Annie V. Moore and Betty Charlton, uncle Nathaniel Charlton and host of other relatives, church family and friends.