After a life lived with purpose and humility, he laid down the weight of this world. Charles L. Talley age 93 of Lyles, Tennessee, was called home on May 9, 2025. Charles was born to the late Alfred and Mary Talley in Lewis County, Tennessee, on August 28, 1931.

In addition to his parents Charles is preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Ryan Talley and brothers William Talley and Arlan Talley.

Charles served his country with honor as a member of the United States Air Force. During his time in the service, he was stationed in Greenland – a post just 500 miles from the North Pole. Originally assigned for a 90-day tour, he remained for six months. It was a chapter he remembered well, often sharing stories of the harsh cold, and the unexpected beauty of a place so far from home.

After his military service, Charles brought the same work ethic back home. He retired from Ford Glass Plant after 28 years; he served as a Captain in the local Civil Air Patrol and was a proud member of the Tennessee State Guard. His heart for helping others was just as strong as his sense of duty. He volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, helping to build for families in need. During election season, he could be found at the local polling station and was one of the oldest men in town still faithfully helping. Charles brought attention to a forgotten piece of hometown history and helped the town remember one of its own. He uncovered that a long-passed local veteran had received the Medal of Honor and made sure the town knew and honored that soldier’s legacy. One of the many hats he wore and wore well was as a HAM radio operator and certified VE. With his call sign KM4JPA, he stayed on the air and ready through a storm or when the systems went down. Charles was one of a few who got the word out when it mattered most.

And still, he found peace in the simplest acts – tending to his garden, which became his gift to the community. Charles was a provider. He looked after people the way he looked after his garden – checking in every day, knowing when something needed tending, never expecting thanks. His garden nourished the community. He grew more than vegetables; he grew trust, friendship, and care, offering fresh produce and kind words.

Those who will carry his memory with love are his three children, Charles Philip Talley of Lyles, Tennessee, Charlene Norris of Seymour, Tennessee and Charlotte Talley of Linden, Tennessee; grandchildren, Lane Litton of Knoxville, Tennessee and Ethan (Ruthann) Litton of Norfolk, Virginia; special friend Mrs. Cherie Haygood; a host of extended family and friends whom loved him dearly along with his furry and loyal companion “Fred”.

Charles was a devoted veteran, selfless friend and generous soul. And if you were lucky enough to know him, you were lucky.

Visitation with the family will be May 12, 2025 from 4:00 – 8:00 PM at McDonald Funeral Home – Hickman County.  Funeral Services will be 13 May 2025 at 12:00 PM at McDonald Funeral Home – Hickman County with burial to follow at Charles L Nickell Memorial Park, Centerville, TN. 

McDonald Funeral Home in Centerville, Tennessee is honored to be serving the Talley Family during this difficult time.