Kenneth Ray Charles Sr.

REV. KENNTH RAY CHARLES, SR.,  age 80 a lifelong resident of McMinn County  went home to be with Jesus on Nov. 8, 2022 at his residence. He was a son of the late Clifford and Burnella "Sis" Daugherty Charles.  He was saved at a young age, later pastored several churches in McMinn and Meigs County. He was preceded in death by Two Brothers: J. O.  Charles, Donny Charles, Two Sisters: Betty Lunsford and Wanda Barnes. He played softball for a number of years and managed West End Church softball team. He taught the Jr. Boys and Senior Adults before surrendering to the call to preach. He was a member of West End Baptist Church. He managed several auto parts stores in Athens, Tenn. and retired from Tennessee Wesleyan University as Superintendent of Building and Grounds.

Survivors:: Wife of 60 years: Nancy "Dee" Cagle Charles of Athens, Tenn.,  Two Sons and daughter-in-law: Kenny Charles of Athens, ,Tenn., Greg and Amy Charles of Athens, Tenn., Granddaughters:  Tierney (Eric) Joines Kilby, Shyanne Vestal and Fiancé: Will Patterson, Great Grandbabies  Knoxford  and Barrett Kilby Brother: Denny (Jerry) Charles, Sisters: Estalene Deakin of Etowah, Tenn. Peggy Smith of Niota, Mary  (Mack) Wilson of Sweetwater, Tenn., Kaye Wattenbarger of Athens., Several , Nieces,  Nephews, Cousins and friends.

Funeral services will be 7:00 PM. Thursday, November 10, 2022 in West End Baptist Church with Rev. Herman Jordan and Greg Charles officiating. Interment will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, November 11, 2022 in Cedar Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5-7 Thursday at the church.  Active pallbearers will be Larry Malone, Bill Cagle, Alex Cagle, Tim Smith, Chris Smith and Tony Stephens. Honorary pallbearers will be former West End Softball Team members. Memorial contributions may be made to West End Baptist Church P. O. Box 1651 Athens, Tenn. 37371 or The Gideon's. Condolences may be sent to www.laycock-hobbs.com/notices/Kenneth-Charles    Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home, Athens, Tenn. kin charge of arrangements.