Colonel Charles Stokes Price

Colonel Charles Stokes Price, age 85, of Valdosta, Georgia, passed away on December 12, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

A man of faith, integrity, and exceptional service, Charlie devoted 26 years to the United States Air Force, serving from 1962 to 1988. Graduating from the United States Air Force Academy in 1962, he became a gifted and courageous aviator, completing two tours in Vietnam, flying both DC-3s and the F-4 Phantom in combat. His skill, leadership, and calm under pressure guided him through some of the nation’s most challenging missions.

During more than 14 years of USAF service in Europe, Charlie served as an F-15 pilot, and his talent and leadership led to his selection as both a Squadron Commander and later a Wing Commander. His distinguished career culminated in his retirement as a Colonel, and his service was honored with the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit and five Distinguished Flying Cross medals (2 with heroism), among many other decorations.

After retiring from the Air Force, Charlie continued his life of purposeful leadership as a general plant manager for Trus Joist in both Valdosta, Georgia, and Louisiana. He was respected for his fairness, steady guidance, and commitment to excellence.

Faith was the cornerstone of Charles’s life. A devoted member of First Baptist Church of Valdosta, he served faithfully as a deacon, always seeking to lift others up through service, fellowship and numerous overseas church missions. Away from work and duty, Charles found joy on the golf course—where referring to him as an “avid golfer” hardly captured the passion, humor, and competitive spirit he brought to every round.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Mary Jo Bracewell Price, his steadfast companion through every deployment, challenge, and achievement. Their lifelong partnership was one of deep devotion, respect, and enduring love. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, The Honorable Frederick J. and Karen Price of Chestertown, Maryland, nephews and nieces, Kent and Eliza Price of Tobaccoville, North Carolina, Major (Ret) Walter and Mary Bracewell, of Sumter, South Carolina, Theresa and Stephen Murphy of Mount Dora, Florida, Lt. Col. Charles and Katie Prie of Edmond, Oklahoma; brother-in-law Captain (Ret) James P Bracewell of Jennings, Florida; nieces and nephews, Cheryl and Michael Nelson of Lewes, Delaware, Bronwyn DeMaso of Royersford, Pennsylvania, Stephanie Price of Virginia Beach, Virginia; as well as numerous great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille Catherine Acquaviva Price and Kent S. Price; nephew, Commander Job Price; brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Kent and Joanne Price; and brother and sister-in-law, Harry and Nancy Price.

Colonel Price will be remembered for his humility, strength, faith, and unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community. His legacy endures in the lives he touched and the example he set.

Information for Col. Price's memorial service will follow shortly. In lieu of flowers the family would prefer donations be made to First Baptist Church of Valdosta, GA, in care of Mission Outreach.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home