March 3, 1929 ~ June 5, 2015
Charles E. Wallace spent his entire life in service to others. He was born March 3, 1929 in Hughes Springs to Jim Wallace and Daisey (Black) Wallace and passed away June 5, 2015. He graduated from Hughes Springs High School and got a degree in chemistry and physics at Texas A&M Commerce. He was a veteran of two military branches, serving in the Navy during the end of WWII and joining the US Air Force after his college graduation as a 1st Lieutenant. Charles retired from Lone Star Steel Co. as a manager of Inspection and Quality Assurance. Charles was involved in many church and civic organizations; Hughes Springs City Council, Director of the Hughes Springs Historical Cemetery, Lions Club, Wildflower Trails, Boy Scouts, Hughes Springs Volunteer Service, Hughes Springs School Board, Arden Hanes American Legion (and its Honor Guard), First United Methodist Church Board Chairman, Sunday School teacher, mens breakfast creator, and many others. He was a recipient of several service awards; District Legionnaire Award from the American Legion, Hughes Springs Citizen of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award for the city, Garden Club Crystal Globe Award, SWEPCO Contribution Awards, Humanitarian Award (for his ambulance service), the Masonic Lodge Command Builders Award, and the American Legion District Award for service to the community and the American Legion, as well as being chosen as the Lions International District Hall of Fame. Charles Wallace is survived by his loving wife, of almost 65 years, Mary Elizabeth Pilgrim Wallace; and three children and their spouses, Karen and Randy Epps, Chuck and Toni Wallace, and Mary Ellen and Kent Thigpen, D.D.S.; his baby brother, Robert (RAB) Wallace. He leaves eight grandchildren, Chelsi Thigpen Jackson M.D., Allen Thigpen, Heather Wallace Foshee, Heath Wallace, Shane Head, Brett Head, Jason Head, and Adam Head; eleven great-grandchildren, Cheyne Brown, Cason Head, Kelsey Head, Reagan Head, Blake Head, Ryan Head, Brandon Head, Ali Head, Harper Foshee, Cash Jackson, and Tate Jackson. Charles was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Judy Wallace Gibson; brother, Wesley Wallace; and niece Connie Gibson. Services will be 4:00 p.m. Sunday, June 7, 2015 at First United Methodist Church in Hughes Springs. Burial will follow at Hughes Springs Cemetery under the direction of Reeder-Davis Funeral Home in Hughes Springs. There will be a time of visitation beginning at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the church.
Guestbook
Such a wonderful man! Loved to hear his stories! Mrs. Mary you are in our prayers!
We love you very much Mary, Mr. Charles touched so many lives as do you. Please know that our prayers are with you.
The words below remind me of Charles Wallace: He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much, who has enjoyed the companionship of good women, the respect of intelligent men, and the love of children. Who has filled his niche, accomplished his task, who has left the world a better place than he found it… Who never lacked appreciation for the earth's beauty or failed to express it. Who looked for the best in others and gave them the best he had. Whose life was an inspiration and memory a benediction!
What a wonderful life served. Mr. Charles touched many lives in his walk through this world. I will always remember his energy and winning smile. He will be greatly missed by his family and the community of Hughes Springs.
Please accept my sincere condolences. Charles is one who will be long remembered for his many helpful deeds to our community and to his Church ! May God enfold you in his loving arms and hold you close as he carries you through the days ahead. Love you, Carol Griffis
Mary and Family: So sorry to hear of your loss. Charles was such a good, kind hearted, giving man. We will miss him also! Please remember, he gave his all and the Lord took him home. He is at rest and Peace. May the Lord be with you, now and always. DC & Julie.
Growing up, Charles and Mary's house was like my second home. I had hundreds of meals at their table. Charles was one of the men who was a role model for me and man I have always respected. His life has left a huge foot print on the community of Hughes Springs. His dedication to his family and his commitment of time and energy for his town. He truly was a man who made a difference. He has left a imprint on many people, and I am proud to say I am one.
I am so sorry for all of the family & friends of Charlie. He worked with my late husband for many years. I will miss seeing him all gussied up in his uniform marching in all the town parades. RIP, Charlie. You were a good man.
so sorry to hear this. prayers to the family…
A good Christian man. You will be surely missed.