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Charles Wess Obituary
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Deacon Charles Wess Sr., age 93, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Boardman, Florida, Deacon Wess lived a long and meaningful life marked by unwavering faith, devoted service, and deep love for his family. His early years were spent in Marion County, Florida and Cordele, GA, before making his home in Columbus, Ohio. He proudly served 20 years in the United States Air Force, a journey that shaped his character, discipline, and heart for others. His legacy of leadership, love, and spiritual guidance lives on through his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 20 cherished years, Patricia Van Cleaf Porter Wess, daughter, Catherine Wess Butler, three sons: Reverend Bennie Anderson Wess (Felicia), Reverend Dr. Byron Patrick Wess, Reverend David James Wess Sr. (Yolanda); Forrest Stephen Porter (Aileen), Vicki Lynn Porter, Joi Yvette Carter (Terance), Scott A. Porter (Amy), and Christa McDuffie (Kermit).
Deacon Wess was known for his wisdom, dependability, and steadfast faith in God. He was a guiding light to many, whether offering words of encouragement, modeling quiet strength, or living out his deep convictions with grace and humility. His impact will be felt for generations to come.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Willie Lee McCoy, first wife of four years, Jessie Mae Daniels, (mother of his daughter); and by his second wife of 50 wonderful years, Dora Jean Wess, (mother of their four sons); his beloved son, Charles Wess Jr., daughter-in-law Judy Wess, sister, Ida Bingue, and grandson, Aaron Joney Wess.
Deacon Wess leaves to mourn and cherish his memory eighteen grandchildren; Charles Wess, III (Kerry Elaine), David James Wess, Jr. (Karissa), Jonathan Wess Blakely, Dalen Alexander Wess (Alix), Emily Wess, Christopher Wess, Dyonna Dora Jean Wess, William Wilson Wess, Danielle Ashlee Jones, Lauren Blake Harris, Neelia Files (Lee), Stephanie Porter Fisher, Forrest Leon Porter (Alisha), Zarek Porter, Zion Porter, Terence W. Carter, II, Kendall McDuffie, Kamryn McDuffie; nineteen great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and friends who will continue to honor his memory.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deacon Charles Wess, Sr., please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Mary Beth Durr
August 23, 2025
D. Deacon West was a kind gentle wise man of God. He was helpful, generous and always willing to share the word of the Lord. He will be greatly missed. He has planted enough seeds of wisdom and love in our lives to carry us through rest of our lives.
Sincerely;
Mary Beth and
Tanya McDay
August 23, 2025
Rev. Bennie and Felicia Wess and Family,
I was heartbroken to learn of the passing of Deacon Wess. He lived a wonderful life and now rests comfortably in the loving arms of God. I grew up in Shiloh with you and we will forever be family. I pray that with each step you take in his memory, you will find comfort and strength. He will be forever missed, always loved!
Reggie McMillian
August 22, 2025
My condolences to the family he was a great man . He will be truly missed. God Bless Reggie McMillian.
Robin Sinkler
August 22, 2025
To the Wess family, praying for comfort during this time. Mr. Wess lived a long life and he was a great example of a Godly man. Continued prayers for the Entire family.
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DeMaris Bland
August 21, 2025
To the family of Deacon Charles Wess Sr, we extend prayers and sincere condolences, to you, for comfort, during this difficult time. Deacon Wess was a Man of God, a family man whose personality would shine through to everyone. Our families have been friends, for many years. Some of our children have grown up together. Love to you all. May God's Blessings continue to strengthen and comfort you. Deacon Wess, Rest In Eternal Peace. DeMaris Bland, Horace Bland and Family
Elaine Bell
August 21, 2025
We send condolences and prayers to the Deacon Charles Wess family during your time of loss. You are all so blessed to have had this beloved man of God, in your lives for so many years. We have known him since childhood at Shiloh Baptist Church as well as adulthood thru family events and have enjoyed his kindness and loving spirit. May the Lord bless and keep you all. Elaine and Alton Bell, Jr family
Paula Page Coleman
August 20, 2025
To Rev. Bennie Wess and the Wess family. I am so very sorry for the passing of your father Deacon Charles Wess. He was always a wonderful person with a smile on his face. My prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
God will give you comfort, peace and strength.
Anthony and Paula Page Coleman
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867 S James Road, Columbus, OH 43227
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