Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Charles Folsom Obituary
Born on January 15, 1952, in Kansas City, Kansas, Charlie was the third of six children of Floyd and Genevieve (Lepillier) Folsom. His family later moved to Parker, where, at the age of 16, he met the love of his life, Deborah "Debbie" Marie Folsom. They were married on November 15, 1975, and built a life together filled with love and devotion, spending most of their married years in Osawatomie, Kansas. After retirement, they settled in Gardner.
Charlie dedicated much of his career to USD 368, working at both North School and Cottonwood. He found great joy in seeing children succeed, especially his own. He and Debbie raised two children, Cristal and Richie, who were the pride of his life.
An avid outdoorsman, Charlie enjoyed fishing, hunting, and gardening. Later in life, he developed a passion for video poker and cherished trips to Oklahoma with his brothers to enjoy time together at the casino. Above all, he adored his granddaughters and was their biggest fan. Whether capturing their sporting events as chief videographer or spoiling them with ice cream the moment they walked through the door, he never missed an opportunity to bring joy to their lives.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Johnny; and his sister Gennie. He is survived by his beloved wife Debbie; daughter Cristal Moley and her husband Frank, along with their children Olivia, Emily, and Isabella; son Albert "Richie" Richard Folsom and his wife Jarie, along with their children Rhiannon and Laila; brothers Bill, Ted, and Danny; as well as many other cherished family members and friends.
Charlie's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A celebration of life will be held March 15, 2025 11am-2pm:
Divine Mercy Catholic Parish
Parish Hall (West most building)
555 W. Main St.
Gardner, KS 66030
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Judy Welter
March 17, 2025
Charlie was an awesome friend. He was a joy as a coworker. May his memories be cherished.
Robert and Christina Folsom
February 26, 2025
Charlie you´ll be missed by so many. You were truly one of kind, your heart overflowed with love! From passing in the store, or the Folsom Christmas parties you never overlooked anyone. Your smile was contagious. Prayers for Debbie, kids, and the rest of the family. Much love from Robert and Christina Folsom
TERRY OUTLER
February 25, 2025
CHARLIE YOU WERE A TRUE FRIEND OF MINE FOR 59YEARS.WE DID ALOT OF FUN THINGS TOGETHER.R.I.P. UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Robert Hess
February 25, 2025
Debbie I am so sorry for your loss. I will miss my talks with Charlie as will Pearl Ann. It was always a pleasure when Charlie would take his walks and we would just talk and talk. The first thing he always asked was how is Miss Pearl doing. We could chat about everything and then some. He just seemed so genuine and caring and I know I am a better person having gotten to know him.
Katie
February 24, 2025
I first met Charlie when I was in kindergarten at Cottonwood Elementry, where I loved to talk to him everyday at lunch. He reminded me of my dad, who was often gone for work. We would talk after lunch for the three years I was at Cottonwood.
I then had the opportunity to get to know Charlie a bit better while working at the Osawatomie Public Library, as he would often come in to pick up and drop off Debbie's books. He was one of the kindest people I've met, and I will miss seeing and talking to him dearly.
I am so sorry to the Folsom family for their loss. Charlie was a special man who will not be forgotten.
LaDonna Gee
February 24, 2025
I will always remember Charlie, as I met him in our development. Sweet jokester with an infectious smile. I will miss seeing him on my walks everyday. But, I will see you Debbie on your walks. Maybe we can team up sometime. My condolences.
Rita Morrison
February 22, 2025
I am sorry for your family loss of a good man
Kathy Schreiner
February 22, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with Charlie at North Elementary for ten years. He was alway so fun to be around! He always a had lots of stories of Debbie and his children. And later years his grandchildren. So sorry for your loss, he will be missed.
Crystal Hensley
February 22, 2025
I am gonna miss running into Charlie, our Walmart visits were the best! He always had the best smile!
Patt and Bruce Ludwick
February 22, 2025
We have many good memories of Charlie and his time at North and Cottonwood schools. Also of the fish he caught in our pond and then shared with us.
Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results
Make a Donation
in Charles Folsom's name
How to support Charles's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Charles Folsom's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
