Charles Windell Stokes

Charles Stokes was my mentor when he asked me to come and serve with him at Highland Park UMC in Youth Ministry. He took all of those countless meetings from me and allowed me to just serve and be with Youth...which was my passion. I remember when we had our annual Ski Trip and he allowed youth to go even tho they might have missed school for a day. (We went over MLK weekend during those days) He told me after the trip that the principal wanted to meet with him. I asked if he needed me and...

You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers today. We will miss Charles and his gentle, kind spirit in our neighborhood. He was truly a great example of a disciple of Jesus. May you Faith and support from family and friends get you through these difficult times.

Charles always knew how to handle any situation. My 90 yr old mother loved to attend Charles Saturday evening service. One week, as Charles was preaching, Mom passed out and started sliding out of her chair. Someone immediately called 911. During this commotion Charles remained composed and completed his sermon even as they wheeled Mom out to the nearest ER. About an hour later while waiting in the ER Charles and Louise showed up and like always Charles added a bit of levity to the...

Charles was such a part of Walter and my experiences at St. Andrew--marrying our children; baptizing our granddaughter; he was so approachable, caring, kind. I remember when we were visiting churches and Walter just went right up to Charles after we visited St. Andrew and told him he wanted to sing in the choir! Charles, of course, welcomed him. What a legacy he has left us all!

Goodbye to a wonderful man. I'll always treasure the support Charles and Louise showed for the music program and how he modeled Christian behavior through his modest, every-day kindness.