Charles F. Warthen

Charles (Bud) Warthen

July 5, 1941 – March 17, 2026

Charles "Bud" Warthen, 84, of Woodbine MD. passed away on March 17, 2026 at his residence. Born on July 5, 1941, Bud was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose steady presence, warm humor, and quiet strength shaped the lives of those who knew him. A man of deep faith, he was known for his constancy-showing up, helping where he could, and loving his family with a steadfast heart.

On April 21, 1962, he married Mary Scott Warthen-the love of his life and the one he chose, every day, for more than six decades. Bud adored Mary and affectionately called her by nicknames such as "Puss," a small glimpse of the tenderness that marked their life together. Their marriage was defined by deep devotion, loyalty, and the kind of love that shows itself in patience, laughter, and unwavering support. Side by side, they built a home grounded in faith and family, and their bond remained the steady center of it all.

Bud attended Elkridge Baptist Church for more than 60 years and faithfully served the congregation for many of those years as church treasurer. His faith was not only something he professed, but something he lived-through dependability, generosity, and an unwavering concern for others. Many knew him as a prayer warrior who would spend most evenings in prayer calling individuals out by name-someone you could turn to for steady encouragement, a listening ear, and heartfelt prayer.

Bud believed in an honest day's work and the dignity of providing for his family. He spent over 40 years with Carr Lowrey Glass Company in Baltimore, Maryland, and he carried that same steady work ethic everywhere he went. He began working with his late son-in-law, Bob Lewis, at Laurel Kia-quickly becoming a familiar, trusted face and a true staple of the car business community. Whether you knew him as "Bud" or simply as the person you could count on, he had a way of making people feel welcomed and taken care of.

In his younger years, Bud enjoyed hunting and bowling, pursuits that brought him both friendship and fond memories. He also loved sports and took special pride in cheering for his hometown Maryland teams, celebrating the wins and staying loyal through the seasons.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Ida Warthen; his brother, Howard "Skippy" Warthen; and an infant sister.

Bud is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Scott Warthen; his children, Charles Warthen Jr. (Ruth) and Mary Lisa Lewis Merson (Vance); 15 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren, each of whom carries forward a part of the legacy he helped create.

Celebration of Life: Saturday, April 11, 2026; 11:30 a.m., Elkridge Baptist Church, 5926 Setter Drive, Elkridge, MD. 21075

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to Elkridge Baptist Church.

Services entrusted to Going Home Cremation and Funeral Care.