Charles Vernon Guthrie

Charles Vernon Guthrie, a man whose warmth and creativity touched the lives of many, passed away on November 23, 2025, in Holiday Hills, IL. Born on July 23, 1943, in Lewisburg, TN, Charles's life was a tapestry woven with love, passion, and the joy of sharing his talents with the world.
A devoted husband to his beloved wife Glennis Elaine, Charles's love story was one of mutual support and enduring companionship. His legacy is carried on through his sons, Duane Alan and Darryl James, who, along with Darryl's wife Dawn, shared in Charles's zest for life and love for family. His grandchildren, Charlene Lucille, married to Dilyan, and Shawna Rae, married to Drew, saw in him a fountain of wisdom and laughter. The twinkle in his eye was never brighter than when he was with his great-grandchildren, Kaya Elaine, Tailor Marie, and Darren Paul. His sister, Carolyn Virginia, and niece, Jonnine Marie, will fondly remember Charles's endearing presence and the joy he brought to family gatherings.
Preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, as well as his mother and father-in-law, Charles's spirit of love and generosity continues to echo in the lives of those he left behind.
Charles found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life. His hands, always eager to create, turned flour and sugar into the most delightful Christmas cookies, a tradition that brought friends and family together year after year. He was a patient teacher to anyone who wished to learn the art of baking, and his kitchen was always filled with the sounds of laughter and the sweet aroma of his famous treats.
A lover of the outdoors, Charles took great pride in meticulously mowing his lawn, with every blade of grass a testament to his dedication and care. Woodworking was another of his passions, with each creation a piece of his heart carved into form. His handcrafted gifts were not just objects but symbols of his affection, cherished by all who received them.
Charles's love for people was boundless. To him, everyone was a friend, and his welcoming smile was a source of comfort and joy to many. His loving nature was matched only by his creative spirit and passion for life, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him.
As we bid farewell to Charles Vernon Guthrie, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and love. He was a beacon of light in the lives of those he touched, and his memory will continue to inspire us to embrace each day with the same loving, creative, and passionate spirit that he embodied. Charles's journey on this earth may have come to an end, but his story-told through the lives he influenced-will never fade.
For more information, please call Justen Funeral Home at 815-385-2400 or visit www.justenfh.com, where friends and loved ones can share memories of Charles on his memorial wall.