Charles F. Porter, Jr

Charles F. “Charlie” Porter, Jr was born on November 26, 1940, in Portsmouth, Virginia and passed away at home on April 3, 2026, in Woodbridge, Virginia.

He was commissioned into the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1963 and served his country for 22 years, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (LTC). He continued his career as a Civil Servant at the U.S. Army Intelligence Command (INSCOM) until his retirement in 2003.

Charlie’s life revolved around God, his family, and community. “Mr. Charlie” was known as the Mayor of Westridge. He loved his neighbors and they loved him back. His koi pond was legendary to family and friends far and wide. Charlie was an avid sailor and enjoyed racing his sailboat, Faith. He loved traveling and especially visiting his happy place in Key West, Florida. He was a die-hard University of Virginia sports fan. He enjoyed sharing his experiences and stories with everyone.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sharon; his children Tammy Ward and husband Cliff, Todd Porter and wife Kandi, Cherri Kessler and husband Scott, Toby Porter, and Jamie Gates and husband Chris; grandchildren Colby Ward and wife Jessica, Curtis Ward and wife Kylea, Christopher Ward and wife Brittany, Colton Kessler and wife Lesley, Kylie Ball and husband Jordan, Kassidy Payne and husband Daniel, Faith Gates, Porter Gates, and Samuel Gates; great-grandchildren CJ Kessler, Carson Ward and 2 more are expected in the summer of 2026.

His extended family included his sister-in-law, Lois Shields and husband Bill, brother-in-law, Jeff Wiseman and wife Kathy, and brother-in-law, Ralph (Bunk) Wiseman and wife, Jennifer. Charlie was also loved by many nieces and nephews and their families.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 2 at Old Bridge United Methodist Church (3966 Old Bridge Road, Woodbridge VA 22192) at 2 pm. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. A reception will be held immediately following the service. Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Hope for the Warriors (https://www.hopeforthewarriors.org/donate), Camp Rainbow (https://crcva.org/give), or the charity of your choice.