Shawn-Patrick Thomas Charles

Shawn-Patrick Thomas Charles obituary, Morganton, NC

Shawn-Patrick Thomas Charles

Shawn-Patrick Charles Obituary

Published by The News Herald on Oct. 27, 2011.
Capt. Shawn-Patrick Thomas Charles MORGANTON Capt. Shawn-Patrick Thomas Charles, 40, of Copperas Cove, Texas, passed away Sunday, Oct. 23, 2011, at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, following a brief illness. Shawn was born in Los Angeles, Calif., on Sept. 28, 1971. He graduated from Tavares High School in Tavares, Fla., received his bachelor's degree from Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, and received his master's degree in public administration from Appalachian State University in Boone. A 22-year veteran of the U.S. Army and Army Reserves, Capt. Charles was a recipient of the Bronze Star and was currently stationed in Fort Hood, Texas, as a member of the 2-8 Cav. He served as the S-1 and Battalion Adjutant. Prior to his illness, Shawn was serving in Iraq. Prior to his military service, Shawn worked at Henredon Furniture in Morganton. He was the former Chairman of the Catawba County Republican Party, a member of Theta Chi Fraternity, and was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Copperas, Texas. Shawn is survived by his wife of nine years, Melissa Johnson Charles of the home, and his children, Zoe and Max Charles of the home. A funeral mass will be held at 3:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 28, 2011, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Hickory, with Father Ed Sheridan officiating. The family will receive friends Friday, Oct. 28, at the church, from 1:30 until 3 p.m.. Burial will follow in Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery in Morganton with military honors provided by the U.S. Army. Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements. Condolences may be made online at www.sossomanfuneralservice.com.


This obituary was originally published in the News Herald (Morganton, NC).

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January 20, 2023

scarlet a Wooltton posted to the memorial.

November 5, 2011

Dawn Hess posted to the memorial.

October 28, 2011

Troy Church posted to the memorial.

scarlet a Wooltton

January 20, 2023

Shaun was a good leader to many people in college

Dawn Hess

November 5, 2011

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998

Troy Church

October 28, 2011

A mutual friend and alum of the MPA program called and told me of this tragedy. Sharing classes, conversation, and the occasional meal with Shawn, this is shocking and untimely. I will forever treasure those memories and express my sincere regret that your family could not have had more time with you. It is said that man never forgotten never dies. I won't forget. Peace to your family now and always. Hand Salute.

Jennifer (Thompson) Dollar

October 28, 2011

I was very shocked and saddened to learn of Shawn's passing. I remember him from our college years at L-R as such a positive, outgoing person who was friendly to everyone. I pray that your family will find comfort and peace through God during this sad time.

Laura Papsun

October 27, 2011

Shawn had such a wonderful zest for life and an enthusiasm that was infectious. My years at LR would not have been the same without him. Prayers for peace and comfort to his family.

SFC Gregory Bowman

October 27, 2011

It is a shock to hear of your passing. You were a good Drill Sergeant, Officer, Battle Buddy and friend. Your family will be in our prayers. You will be missed my friend.

Ruth Ann Strickland

October 27, 2011

We will all miss Shawn. He was a wonderful person and a true hero. All my sympathy goes out to his family and friends.

Terri & Richard Taylor

October 27, 2011

My deepest sympathy to your entire family for the loss of Capt.Charles. May God be with you all during this difficult time. My greatest thanks for Capt. Charles and your family, for his service to the USA.

Suzy (Young) Crook

October 27, 2011

Keeping you all close in our thoughts and prayers. I was a college classmate of Shawn's and will always remember his infectious smile!! God's peace during this difficult time.

Fran & Dom

October 27, 2011

Melissa,Dom and I just learned of the passing of Shawn. Please know that we surely would be present at the service on Friday; however, Dom is on his way to California. I am unable to be there. We both want you and your children to know how taken back we were to recieve this sad news. Dom thought a lot of Shawn and they were in touch for a time and I think they talked several times. I will always remember the Christening of Zoe and felt honored to be invited. Then we learned of the birth of your precious son. We will keep you and your children in our prayers.

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January 20, 2023

scarlet a Wooltton posted to the memorial.

November 5, 2011

Dawn Hess posted to the memorial.

October 28, 2011

Troy Church posted to the memorial.