Charlesetta Jones

Charlesetta Jones, of Melrose Park. IL. - affectionately known as "Charlie," peacefully passed away on August 12, 2025, at the age of 86. In her final days, she was surrounded by the love of family and friends, with her daughters by her side, in her very last hours.

Born March 5, 1939, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Geneva Tuggle and Clanton Thomas, Charlie's story is one of perseverance, faith, and unwavering strength. As a young girl, she and her family moved to Chicago. She even returned to Memphis for some time but eventually came back here, to Chicago.

Charlie's commitment to faith began early. She accepted Christ at a young age and was a devoted, active member of Jesus Outreach Ministry for decades. Through the years, she served on many of the outreach teams.

On February 11, 1955, Charlesetta married Garnell Clinkscales. From their union came two daughters, Charlotte Bennett and Carol Clinkscales, who would become the center of her world. Her deep love for her family continued to blossom with the arrival of her cherished grandchildren: Alonzo DeWayne Bennett, Leonard Clinkscales (Ramah), Eric Bennett (Nicole), Derrick Clinkscales, and granddaughter Ericka Clinkscales; her great-grandsons Terrell, Tevin, Evan, Deshaun, and Derrick Jr.; great-granddaughters Nyarra and Jade; and five precious great-great granddaughters. Charlie's legacy of love and devotion lives on in each generation.

Charlie was preceded in passing by her beloved older sister, Jean Gray. She leaves behind her loving sisters: Christine (Eugene), Cecelia, and Marva (John), as well as a host of nieces and nephews-both in Chicago and Memphis-who will forever cherish her memory.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Charlie returned to school in her 60s, earning her certification in the healthcare field. For a nice majority of her WorkLife, Charlie was a devoted Nurse Assistant and Home Health Care Companion, caring for others with boundless empathy and skill. Even after retirement, Charlie continued to work, never losing her sense of hope. It was only in her final couple years, when her own health required care - she gratefully received care from her family, with Angel as her dedicated caregiver. Special thanks to her nieces and nephew - Angel, Shawn, and Kimberly for their skill and commitment.

Those who knew Charlie spoke of her fiery spirit and her loving heart - yes, she was known to be feisty - but also a sweetheart - whose strength uplifted others. She was a trooper-a tough cookie, indeed. Her greatest joy came from gathering with her family, preparing soul food feasts and desserts, and sharing laughter and stories with loved ones. She maintained close, special bonds with her sisters, nieces, nephews, and every member of her family.

Her daughters were her pride and joy; not a day would pass without multiple conversations with them. Charlie was ever-present in the lives of each of her grandchildren, delighting in each visit, phone call, time spent, and memory shared.

An avid game player, Charlie loved cards, Scrabble, and crossword puzzles. She was a fan of the Game Show Network-shows like "Family Feud"-and her latest favorite, "Cash Cab," which brought her joy and entertainment in recent years.

Above all, Charlie was a woman of profound faith. If you ever met her, you knew she loved the Lord and praised God at all times. Her spirit, generosity, and love for family will be remembered and celebrated by all who were blessed to know her.

May she rest in eternal peace, wrapped in Love and Grace.