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Charles Neville Obituary
His brother Aaron Neville confirmed to WWL-TV in New Orleans that Charles died from pancreatic cancer in Massachusetts.
Charles and his brothers were born in New Orleans and the Neville Brothers were a legendary band in their hometown.
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He started his musical career in the backing bands for iconic artists such as Jimmy Reed and B.B. King.
Charles had a drug addiction and spent some time in jail in the 1960’s for possession of marijuana. He would get clean in the 1980’s.
In 1976, Charles and his brothers played on an album for his Uncle George Landry’s band, The Wild Tchoupitoulas. That would lead to the brothers starting their own group.
They released their debut album on Capitol Records in 1978, mixing funk, New Orleans R&B and soul, receiving critical acclaim.
The Neville Brothers released many albums, worked with Keith Richards and Carlos Santana, and won a Grammy in 1989 for the song “Healing Chant” from their Yellow Moon album.
Charles moved with his family to rural Massachusetts in the 1990’s. After the Neville Brothers ended in 2012, he continued to play with his brother Aaron and led his own jazz combo.
Aaron paid tribute to his brother on social media:
"Just want you to know that if I would’ve had the choice of picking my brothers, I would definitely choose you... You’ll always be in my heart and soul, like a tattoo. You helped to mold me into who I am today and I’ll always be thankful. I’ll always see your special infectious smile on the stage next to me, it would always give me a smile."
We invite you to share condolences for Charles Neville in his Guest Book.
135 Entries
TKO
September 25, 2022
My sincere condolences to Mrs. Neville and her Sons. I met Charles at the Lands In Sights Festival in Montreal, Canada, in 2003. I can't remember if I met Mrs. Neville, but I think I did, because I wanted to visit with her at the University in Boston were she worked. Charles said that when I needed him for my "Crooner" project, I should reach out, and he'd be a part of it. Dear Sir...I'm saddened that I was late. You and your brothers' have been an inspiration in my life and on my musical journey. I'm at a loss to comprehend the passing of a legend. Your kindness will always be thought of and remembered when I talk of how we met. Thanks for the ear...and the advice. May the creator give you the wings to visit us all. Meegwetch from TKO...The Godfather of Indigenous Rap in Canada.
Alta Wadulla
March 15, 2021
He came to West Palm Beach festival to perform with brothers maybe 1990 or so. Met him very nice cool humble guy. He Needed a split. So I had 1 extra gave to him. Gave me phone number say if ever in town call him. Very appreciated person. Never forgot him. Just fond out He passed. Condolenses to his family.
November 27, 2019
God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the family's...My condolence...
How you can show support
Charles Baines
December 28, 2018
Miss you my friend always great seeing you win I could
Raymond Woodfox
December 23, 2018
May God Bless
Randy Humphries
September 9, 2018
As a youth during The Neville Brothers Fun Years I can easily admit that you were my most favorite, and most followed, band of that era. I loved witnessing y'alls miracles of sound in the quarter, at the fairgrounds, Tipitina's, and those MANY overnight riverboat cruises on the Mississippi!!!
From your Fiyo on the Bayou funky sounds to the perfect complications of magic with your Brother's Keeper album I found my love of music evolve with y'alls excellence!
I look forward to conversations with Charles beyond the pearly gates in heaven one day! RIP my friend, I'm sorry it's taken me this long to learn of your passing.
Love in Christ,
Randy H.
Pierre Curry
August 11, 2018
Charles was A true ambassador of music for the City of New Orkeans. He and the Neville Brothers were a true "Funk Band" who were talented enough to be world icons. They never got their due. It was always a pleasure to see he and his brothers perform. God bless from the Big Easy. You will never be forgotten.
Pam G.
July 22, 2018
I was so sad to hear this news today when it was announced at a live performance I attended. I had not heard about it. I had always hoped to see him live somewhere here in western Mass but unfortunately never got around to it. RIP, Your music will live on!
Eric Nielsen
June 14, 2018
I was lucky enough to see Charles twice when he was with Jeff Pitchell.I also have a photo with him as well.He was a great guy and an excellent musician.RIP Charles
May 29, 2018
I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family for their loss of a talented man, who will be remembered for his contribution to the music industry. I hope you find comfort and help in God during this time of mourning.
Aaron Lewis
May 25, 2018
Your passing isn't a sad occasion. Not ever getting to hear the music that you played, and you passing, would have been. Fortunately, for me and many other people out there, we got to hear that saxophone wail. Your music is etched in time, and on the web, vinyl, cassette, CD, etc. . So in a small way, you'll never really be gone.
Debra Orlando
May 21, 2018
My sincere condolences to the entire Neville family.
In an earlier post in mentioning Charles' collaborations in Pittsfield MA, it should be Clarinetist Paul Green.
May 15, 2018
The family have my prayers and deepest sympathy
I love the Neville Brothers !!!!
Ta-Seti Kentake
May 14, 2018
For Mother's Day, my daughter sent me a link to the American Routes commemoration of Charles Neville. At each concert, I felt I knew him through his winning smile. With deep sadness, I offer prayers and blessings to his loving family. I, along with the world will feel his spirit through the wonderful music of six decades.
Debra Orlando
May 13, 2018
Just finished listening to Nick Spitzer's wonderful tribute on his show American Routes.
Having followed the Nevilles for many years, I was thrilled to learn Charles and family were residing in western Massachusetts.
Charles elevated many a setting with his unique spirit and sounds.
His presence and work at the Springfield Jazz and Roots Fest was really something.
He graced the Third Thursday stage as well as The Mission on North Street here in Pittsfield.
Also in Pittsfield, his teaching at the Berkshire Music School with Rabbi Green was fun and extremely informative.
Pittsfield MA will never be the same.
Rest in Peace and Thank You!
Elma Jones
May 12, 2018
I would like to give my condolences to the Neville family a friend of Darryl Johnson and y'all re in my prayers
Anne-Marie McEwen
May 11, 2018
What a blessing it was for me to meet Charles and his son, Khalif, and get to know them even just the little that I did. Charles was so gentle, kind, humble, sincere, generous and of course talented. Turns out he and my husband, Mike McEwen, practiced the same form of T'ai Chi! They did it together after a show and Charles graciously gave Mike an interview that lasted nearly 30 minutes. It was a moment of time we will always treasure. I'm glad we videotaped it! He really was so kind.
Hosting them at The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center in Middletown, CT was a true joy and privilege for me. They always packed the house and Charles revealed his amazing touch on the Sax. It brought me to tears just how good he was. He was the first and only musician to ever play the sax with so much power, yet gentle finesse and tenderness in the same breath. Simply amazing. Together they exchanged so much love it was palpable in the room. One of the benefits of a small room! Charles really enjoyed the intimacy of TBT and the connection with the audience. And we surely loved him for all he was. He will truly be missed.
Dawn Griffin
May 11, 2018
Spirit of Light, Rest in Peace my friend.
Sabrina Lewis
May 8, 2018
So sorry for your family loss I'm praying strength to everyone at this sad time. My mother and father loved Charles and all the family he will be missed. I'm Bobbie Barnes and Shelton Lewis daughter
May 7, 2018
Charles my neighbor uptown Dufossat you chanted love so eloquently, I cherish the day we met and you shared philosophy.Mizzpah my brother. Phil Bell
Geraldine Levy
May 7, 2018
My condolences and prayers are with,Charlotte--- my former student,and her family as they mourn the loss and celebrate the life of their talented father ; be blessed!
Anne Ghitman
May 7, 2018
I first knew Charles when he was playing with the Neville Brothers Band, when I lived in New Orleans years ago. Neville Brothers concerts were one of the few times I experienced people of all colors and walks of life gathered to dance and boogie and enjoy together in New Orleans! I then took Charles' Tai Chi class at Jacob's Pillow. What a lovely, loving, glowing man he was! His legacy will live on. Thank you, Charles. And love, love to his family.
Arlene Tolopko
May 6, 2018
I was privileged to meet Charles at a Tai Chi class that he was teaching at Jacob's Pillow. After class I asked him if he could do some jazz appreciation with the elementary students of our Farmington River Elementary School in Otis. He smiled radiantly and said "I'd love to!" And that began a special relationship between Charles and the people of Otis. He taught our young students about the history of jazz and the effects of racism on many African-American musicians. He performed at our Knox Trail Inn with his band and packed the place with dancers and admirers. His illness prevented him from working with our students this year. Charles left a deep impact on our town of Otis and especially on me. He was a great friend with the warmest heart and soul.
Wilbur Kennedy, Jr
May 5, 2018
The Kennedy Family (Valence Street) will keep you all in our prayers to survive your period of mourning, to celebrate the Life of Charles, and to keep on keeping on by bringing joy to the world.
May 5, 2018
r.i.p uncle Charlie from soul brother #1 13th ward norwood j boullt.sr
Linda Babcock
May 4, 2018
To an extraordinary man, father, musician and community member. I am remembering the many events in Western Massachusetts -- benefit concert for a burned church in West Cummington, benefit concert for victims of Nepal earthquake, oral history presentations in Springfield, Look Park with a variety of local musicians, Shelburne Falls where Charles asked son Khalif "what key are we playing in?" during a duel concert! Much appreciation for so much that he expressed and gave. Peace and love lives on in him.
Dianne Chaney
May 3, 2018
R.I.P. Mr.Neville Love U Charmaine for ever in our hearts From One ''QUEEN'' To Another LOVE U
G.R. McIlhenny
May 3, 2018
A true musical genius. My life was enriched by this man. His soft spoken words were always chosen carefully. He will be missed by many that knew him. Fly free brother Charles. G.R.
K. Nelson
May 2, 2018
May 2, 2018
For you Charles, your flying with the angels
May 2, 2018
Our condolences to the family and especially to Charmaine. We loved Charles and his music. So sad all the greats are leaving us. God bless the family.
All our love,
Skip and Kiki
Baltimore, Maryland
May 2, 2018
RIP Your fans in Ct
Burnell Lapeyrolerie
May 1, 2018
To the family of Charles Neville my deepest condolences on your lost. Charles was one of the greatest saxophone player to come out of new Orleans since I don't know when him and his brother s were truly the ambassador s of new Orleans music and he will be truly missed. Rest in peace CHA-LAY.
Arthur Goodridge
May 1, 2018
I met Charles a few years ago through a mutual martial arts friend. Charles loved Tai chi and of course music. Since I teach Tai chi and write music we connected on several planes. He asked me to write something for him and I wrote a Saxophone Concerto and he debuted it
Charles was one of the most kindest caring person I have ever met. The world has lost a true ambassador of love and an amazing talent. He will be missed but always remembered
ELDER JOE COLSON, JR AND FAMILY
May 1, 2018
PRAYER ARE WITH YOU'LL!
Donald Green
May 1, 2018
To the children and family of a great man.
I want to send my condolences to everyone in his circle of family. I had the opportunity to meet and play music with Mr. Charles and his son Carlos. He was like a father to me as well, always keeping us sharp in the music game to be in harmony with the world. God bless his legacy and all his family that his music will play on!! YELLOW MOON FOR EVER!!! R.I.P.
May 1, 2018
While words fail to capture the pain of losing a loved one, we look forward to the time when words will fail to capture the joy of having our heavenly Father return your dear one to you.
Tom Hines
May 1, 2018
God bless the great Neville family. We will always have the beautiful spirit and music of Charles.
Jackie
May 1, 2018
Wonderful music
Charles music will always be remembered
His passion won't be forgotten
May family and friends comfort each other as time passes
May God grant them peace from above
April 30, 2018
My condolences to your family. God bless.
Bobbie Garnett
April 30, 2018
Condolences to the Neville Family upon the sad passing of Charles. We grew up loving the music of The Neville Brothers and also that of his brother Aaron Neville. Such a super-talented family, and our hearts go out to you all.
Bobbie & Harry Garnett
Marie J
April 30, 2018
Prayerfully thinking of the family and all who loved Charles. May the peace of God be with you all during this time of mourning.
April 30, 2018
My heartfelt sympathy for the passing of your love one please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
Yc
Terry Traugott
April 30, 2018
So sorry to hear of your passing, Charles. Loved you and your brothers for so long, I can't imagine them without you. It's your time to rest, and we will all join you soon. Thinking of you today. I will always remember you doing sign language on stage and how eloquently you performed with your horn. Will miss you in the spotlight.
Much Love,
Terry Traugott
Austin, Texas
Terri Daley
April 30, 2018
Mr. Neville, my condolences & prayers to you and your family. I share your grief for I lost my brother, my friend, a few yrs ago. What an impact they leave in our life. I pray that your brotherhood will carry you thru all your days to come,as mine has for me.
Sincerely, Terri Daley.
April 30, 2018
My condolences to the Neville family. May fond memories of time spent together comfort you and the peace of God sustain you during this difficult time.
Sally Geisel
April 29, 2018
May he rest in peace. Charles was an amazing musician and a wonderful person. I saw him play several times. Condolences to the family. So sorry for your loss.
Inocensio Ramos
April 29, 2018
Met Charlie last year what a sweet soul.Ride in Peace my friend.
Brenda Cooper-Tatum
April 29, 2018
Rest on Charles.! We will never forget you and that contagious smile!!
AARON O'DWYER
April 29, 2018
MY CONDOLENCES TO YOUR DAMILY AT THIS TIME OF NEED
April 29, 2018
How difficult it is to lose someone who is so dearly loved and needed. May you draw comfort and strength each day through prayer and God's promises. (Jeremiah 29 : 11-13)
Clyta Jenkins
April 29, 2018
Louisiana mourns the loss of its native son. A talented and sweet spirited man who's legacy will live on in the beautiful music he created and leaves us with. My heartfelt condolences to his family and all who loved him. Rest peacefully Charles and enjoy the beauty of that Yellow Moon from the other side.
James (Boston Jim) McMinn
April 29, 2018
Godspeed Charlie ! Rock & Roll Heaven has a New Member ! What a Helluva Band !
April 28, 2018
fly with the angels Charles. Play yellow moon for them
April 28, 2018
Thank you for Sharing your talent with us. 2 Thessalonians 2:16,17
Jeanne Maloney
April 28, 2018
I send my deepest heartfelt love to all the Neville family.
Charles and his beautiful smile and soft presence has given
to all of us who enjoyed his music such joy.
The Neville Brothers and their music are a big part of my
soul and heart. Charles you will never be forgotten, God
has called you home to play in his heavenly orchestra,
Rest in peace.
Jeanne Maloney
Apache Junction, AZ
April 28, 2018
My heartfelt sympathies and condolences for the entire Neville family. May God grant solace during this most challenging time.
Doris Riley
April 28, 2018
I am a fellow New Orleanian.The Neville Family is in my prayers.
Falls Festival 2017
Michael Montemagni
April 28, 2018
Sammie Schenker Friedman
April 28, 2018
Charmaine, I hold you close to my heart during these particularly poignant days of Jazz Festival. Thank you for your friendship, love, and support over the decade since Katrina, and for offering me many opportunities to be with you, and see you and your wondrous father, uncles, and younger family perform together, share together, and give of yourselves, no matter the news, the city's problems, or health issues. Music has always kept you all, and will keep you. I hope the entire Neville family in New Orleans and New England can find healing and strength not just from your faith, but from the network of world-wide love and remembrance that will pour in to lift and hold you. Charles' exquisite devils horn will sing eternal.
Love,
Sammie and Ari Friedman
Burlington, Vt., New Orleans, NYC
Marilynn
April 28, 2018
My deepest condolences to Mr. Charles Neville family and friends. You are not alone during this time of sorrow and pain. May God give your family strength and comfort to help you to endure this loss. As you remember your beloved one, may the God of peace give you comfort and peace in every way. May you find strength from the love and care that surrounds you and comfort in the memories that you shared. Please accept my humble sincere condolences. Know that Prayers are being said in your behalf.
Dwayne Bickham
April 28, 2018
In God's care, rest in peace .
Patricia Rogers
April 28, 2018
I first heard Brother Neville in a small club singing so slim and talented for he knew Warren Parker and Bertha from Xavier University. I went to Dillard in the 56 to 60 era. He and all in the group made their great Mark in music. I remember with nostalgic wonder of those times with greats like Fats Domino and Lionel Ferbos Senior.
Deanna Patricia Hope Bryant Rogers
Rest in Peace Sweet Family
CF
April 28, 2018
May the God of all peace bring comfort to the Neville family and friends at this difficult time.
Blessed
Patrick Shanahan
April 28, 2018
"Life's Friend"
When a heartbeat that echoes love
Dissipates into yesterday's wind,
Today loses a
Friend!
It is only when
We listen to our own heartbeat
That we shall hear our friends again♥.
Gratefully Patrick Shanahan Holyoke, MA
April 28, 2018
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
April 28, 2018
May the God of all comfort be with family and loved ones.
Stephanie Bergquist
April 28, 2018
A beautiful and talented soul taken too soon. I am grateful I had the pleasure of listening to the horn man in the past few years while he performed with his friend Roger Salloom. RIP Charles. You and your talent will be missed by many!
Re
April 28, 2018
To the family,
I am so sorry for your great loss.
Help be assure that God will wipe of all death and pain from our earth
Karen Allen
April 28, 2018
We will miss you Horn Man
Lisa B.
April 28, 2018
Words cannot express the pain of losing Charles. May the memories of his love for music and for people give us the courage to continue each day thanking our Creator.
April 28, 2018
My deepest condolences to the family at this very difficult time
Rev. Clarence and Karen Evans
April 27, 2018
Even though the Neville brothers never knew me I knew each of them I have that creole mix in me too so when I'd hear the brothers I could relate God doesn't make mistakes that's why he's gone home and he didn't make a mistake when he was born May he make music with the angels so when I I get there I'll hear the music rest well my brother and may God strengthen the family.
Rev. Clarence And Karen Evans
DH and Family
April 27, 2018
My condolences to the Neville family.
Cherish all the wonderful memories you
enjoyed as a family and may the memories
bring you comfort at this difficult time.
April 27, 2018
Condolences to the Neville family, so talented . God Bless him in Heaven.rest in peace.
Pam
April 27, 2018
It is never easy to lose a loved one, I pray you find comfort in Gods promise found at John 6:40 which says that soon we will see all our loved ones again. My deepest condolences to the family. Soon he will be playing again.
Patricia Rogers
April 27, 2018
I first heard Brother Neville in a small club singing so slim and talented for he knew Warren Parker and Bertha from Xavier University. I went to Dillard in the 56 to 60 era. He and all in the group made their great Mark in music. I remember with nostalgic wonder of those times with greats like Fats Domino and Lionel Ferbos Senior.
Deanna Patricia Hope Bryant Rogers
Rest in Peace Sweet Family
Pat Lincoln
April 27, 2018
My late husband and I always enjoyed Charles Nevilles horn, all the Neville brothers. Blessings to the family.
Pat Lincoln
CoCo Brown
April 27, 2018
New Orleans has lost a very good man. l performed with him in the late 70's and early 90's. He gave me the opportunity to record on his cd Charles Neville and Diversity in the early 90's. Always kind and generous and always a gentleman. He will be greatly missed. Jamielah Mikal aka Coco Brown
BJ
April 27, 2018
Such a blessing that was shared with many. That your Jovial personality, Warm smile will feel the hearts and comfort many with your talent . Will be greatly missed . My prayers are with the family and friends .
Joe Spagnolia
April 27, 2018
I met Charles on several occasions over the years he inspired me in so many ways I very much enjoyed his music and the help and knowledge he instilled in me he once showed me the magic of life and what it meant be at peace and to also be humble I most of all will miss our talks on events in our lives in the words of someone we all know Keep On Keeping On goodbye my true spirit I will never forget you my heart goes out to the Neville family and also to his beautiful wife you will all be in my thoughts my friend. Joe Spagnolia
Sandra
April 27, 2018
SWEET WONDERFUL MAN. Followed him to many local venues. Never disappointed. So glad he chose to live in our area and to share his superior talents. My condolences to all of his family. So few can leave a living legacy like musicians can. We have been blessed. Thank You Charles.
Marvelle Barksdale
April 27, 2018
My condolences to the Neville family, May each of you find comfort in God and you travel this painful journey. RIH Charles.
April 27, 2018
My sincere condolence condolence to to charles family and friends during this time of grief i amind
Hope
April 27, 2018
Prayers going to the Neville family. RIH
Del and Betsy Wilkins
April 27, 2018
We will never forget the day you stopped by Benny's on Valence. You will be missed. We are sending love to your family.
Joan Case
April 27, 2018
so sorry to hear of Charles passing ...never easy to lose a sibling R I P
Carole Lavalle
April 27, 2018
You were a wonderful addition to our valley; I will miss you and your music. RIP
April 27, 2018
MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE NEVILLE FAMILY. MAY YOUR HEARTS BE HEALED AND FOND MEMORIES EASE YOUR PAIN. WE'LL MISS CHARLES'S INFECTIOUS SMILE.
C.P.,LA.
Kandy
April 27, 2018
I know he will be missed by his family and many others......my condolences to the family ......
Charlie Zigmund
April 27, 2018
I will miss those tie dyed shirts and beautiful sounds from a master horn man. Friendly, humble, approachable, and that smile. Heaven gained an angel. I will miss you my friend.
V M
April 27, 2018
To the family,
Losing our loved ones breaks our heart. Broken hearts can heal through the comfort of God's word. I pray that you find comfort in the words found at Ps. 147:3, 5. May God be a constant source of comfort and strength to you.
Jane Kolb
April 27, 2018
Charles Neville will forever be in my good memories. He stepped up big time when my son Eric needed it. I will forever be grateful to him and his brothers. They were a second family to Eric for the 12 years he was with them. Eric would always tell us of the strength of their family and the love and goodness in their hearts.
Peace and Love
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