Charlete Power Obituary
Charlete Tanya Power, age 84, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on October 10, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona.
Born on May 6, 1941 in Columbus, Ohio to Charles Ernest Burton and Lela Inez Hicks, Charlete-known to all as Tanya-started her education at Marion-Franklin Junior/High School in Columbus, Ohio, later attending Amphi and Tucson High Schools. She continued her studies at the University of Arizona, where she laid the foundation for a lifelong dedication to music and education, and graduated with a BA in Music.
Tanya began her teaching career at Tuba City High School, where she taught choir through the Teacher Corps. In 1971, she joined J. Knox Corbett Elementary School, teaching both choir and elementary education. Her passion for music led her to Naylor Junior High, where she focused exclusively on choir. In 1977, Tanya moved to Morgan Maxwell Junior High, where she continued to inspire young voices until her retirement in 2003. Her memorable productions of *Fiddler on the Roof*, *The Mikado*, and *Pirates of Penzance* remain cherished highlights of her career.
A devoted member of Tucson Baptist Temple, and then Serenity Baptist Church, Tanya served as a worship leader and played piano and organ for numerous congregations throughout her life. Her faith was a guiding light, reflected in her music and service.
Tanya will be lovingly remembered by her husband, John Power; children, Denise and Kent (Shacova), stepdaughter Rachel, grandson Evan, step-grandson Nero, niece Vicki, and nephews Danny, Michael, Mark, and Greg. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Orie and Lillian, nephews David, Dwain and Jeffrey, and niece Elise.
She found joy in crocheting, gardening, reading mysteries, and cheering on Indy car racing-all while savoring dill pickles dipped in salt.
A funeral service will be held on October 22, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at East Lawn Palms Mortuary, 5801 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85712. Viewing will begin at 11:30 a.m., with a graveside committal service following.
Tanya now sings with the Heavenly Host, praising her Savior all the day long. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.
Published by Arizona Daily Star from Oct. 17 to Oct. 21, 2025.