Charles Wilson

Obituary For Charles Wilson

Burial with honors will take place on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at Arlington National Cemetery. Persons wishing to attend should meet outside the Admin Building at 8:15 a.m. We will be guided and process to the burial site at the appropriate time.

Please ensure that you have the Real ID or a government ID or passport.

Services will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at

Alfred Street Baptist Church 301 S. Alfred Street Alexandria,VA 22314

Visitation: 10 a.m.

Funeral: 11 a.m.

Please have flowers delivered to Greene Funeral Home 814 Franklin Street Alexandria, VA 22314 by 6 p.m. on Monday, August 25th or to the Alfred Street Baptist Church by 9 a.m. Tuesday, August 26th.

Charles H. Wilson (USAF Ret.)

The gregarious man we knew and loved, Charles Harrison Wilson, was born September 6, 1941 to Mr. and Mrs. Charles and Lorraine (Parker) Wilson in Chicago, Illinois. As a child, Charles was energetic and industrious. His after-school jobs were diverse, from delivering newspapers and telephone books to meat orders as a butcher’s assistant.

Charles was an excellent student and lifelong learner, beginning his academic journey at Copernicus Elementary, later graduating from Crane Technical High School with ROTC recognition. While earning a bachelor’s degree at Southern Illinois University, then Cadet Wilson completed his four-year AFROTC training and was later commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force in 1964 (as highlighted in the Chicago Defender). Early in his military career, Charles was initiated into the Psi Alpha chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in San Antonio in 1971, drawn to the fraternity's cardinal principles of perseverance and uplift.

Over a span of 24 years, Charles served in numerous roles domestically and abroad, managing military staff, contracts, security, energy systems, and infrastructures. In 1975-76, he was named Outstanding Personnel Officer of the Year, twice. He also served as the Executive Director of the U.S. Department of Defense’s executive leadership program at the Pentagon. With a distinguished record of service, Charles retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1988.

Having earned an MBA, Charles shifted into the private sector with enthusiasm and ease. Over the years, he worked as a college adjunct instructor, finance officer, sales and training manager, and credit union director. With progressive training and advanced certifications, he later excelled as a financial consultant with broad clientele and financial seminars across multiple states.

Community service and civic leadership were hallmarks of his senior years. As an education advocate, Charles was elected to the Alexandria City School Board three terms, ultimately serving as vice chairman. He loved engaging conversation and sharing personal narratives as a member of Toastmasters International and the Departmental Progressive Club, Inc. Among all his accolades, Charles was most humbled by the Living Legends of Alexandria award in 2023. During an interview for the publication, Charles said, “I am thankful to all those who encouraged me along the way. I truly have been blessed.” Charles enjoyed creative experiences and having fun (including his own version of line dances and concocting unconventional popcorn flavors).

Charles affiliated with Alfred Street Baptist Church and its military ministry. Battling health challenges, Charles gained his heavenly victory on August 12, 2025. To be absent in the body is to be present with the Lord (II Cor 5:8).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lorraine; siblings, Joyce and Diane; his first spouse, Clementine (Tina) Wilson and second spouse, Shirley Wilson. Charles is survived by his current wife, Kum Cha Wilson; siblings, Harold and Gloria; four children, Audrey, Angela, Andrew, and Aaron. A host of grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, many long-term friends, associates, and mentees will cherish his memory and wisdom.

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