Charles R. White

Charles R. White (Chuck), of Hatboro passed away after a brief illness, on Friday, January 3, 2025. He was 87 years old. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Teresa (Terry Coyle) in 2022. Chuck and Terry were residents of Hatboro since 1973.

Chuck was born in Philadelphia, the youngest of six children of the late John David and Gertrude (Coady). His brothers, John David, Jr., Sam, Eddie, Tommy, and sister, Gertrude (Tillie), were extremely close with Chuck, each providing unique support and love to their youngest brother throughout his life.

At the age of 17, Chuck joined the Naval Reserves, and then transferred into the Army after graduating from North Catholic High School in 1956. Inspired by his brother Tommy, Chuck joined the Airborne and completed jump school at Fort Bragg, NC in 1957. Chuck was stationed in Augsburg, Germany until 1959 when he returned home, continuing to serve in the Army reserves until discharge in 1963. Chuck and Terry were married at St Athanasius Church, Philadelphia in 1961 and celebrated 60 years of marriage in 2021, before Terry's death in 2022.

Chuck was employed first by PTC as a trolley driver for Route 23, then as a bus operator for Septa until his retirement after 36 years. Chuck was a proud and active member of the Airborne Honor Guard, 82nd Airborne Association Hajdak-Mokan Chapter of Philadelphia for approximately 40 years, lastly participating in Veterans Day services this past November. Chuck also participated in many Vietnam and Korean War Memorial ceremonies through the years, honoring his eldest brother John David, Jr. (Junie) killed in the Korean War.  In 2015, Chuck's chapter honored him with the Trooper of the Year Award.

In addition to his service in the Honor Guard, Chuck enjoyed Hunting, Military memorabilia, Gun shows, Air shows, Car shows, and general flea marketing and collecting of various items. He had an extensive music and book collection and often thrifted items whenever and wherever the opportunity presented. He had a strong passion for History, and especially enjoyed reading and documentaries regarding Military history.

Chuck was a lifelong outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish, wherever that took him. He hunted for many different game animals and his rooms are adorned with trophy deer heads, game birds, foxes and the like. He enjoyed trips with his wife Terry to Lancaster, the Poconos, the Jersey shore, Williamsburg, Martha's Vineyard, Lake George, Canada and various other locations. Chuck enjoyed attending his children and grandchildren's activities, plays, sporting events and all they were involved in. He was always supporting from the sidelines or the audience or from behind the net.

He was an avid Philadelphia Sports fan with his early favorites being the Philadelphia A's and the Frankford Yellow Jackets, and enjoyed watching the Flyers, Phillies and Eagles games with his children and grandchildren. Chuck had a very strong Catholic faith, and was a devoted husband and loving father. It was important to him to instill that Catholic faith in his children and grandchildren. Chuck was a provider who tirelessly gave of himself to ensure his family was cared for in every way.

Chuck was a man of few words. Among what he imparted to his children and grandchildren was to have faith, have courage, and never quit. He had great devotion all his life to St. Michael, The Defender.

Chuck is survived by his children, Charles T. White (Grace), Teresa Ann White, Michael S. White (Mirella), his grandchildren Timothy, Maryanne, Christopher, Morgan, and Desi White. He also leaves beloved brother in-law, Gene Scholl, Terry's extended family, including cousins Adrienne, Rosemary, Audrey and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.In addition to his wife, Chuck was preceded in death by all his siblings and a son, John.

Relatives and friends will be received by his family on Saturday, January 11, 2025 after 9:30 am in Saint John Bosco Church, Hatboro and to attend his Funeral Mass at 11:00 am. His Internment will follow in St. John Neumann Cemetery, Chalfont. In lieu of flowers, Contributions in Chuck’s name may be made to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105 or HERE

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