Charles Emerson Dickens

Charles Emerson Dickens, 86, died peacefully into eternal life on December 9, 2024.  Charles was a U.S. Army Veteran, a WV Coal Miner, Master Electrician and Carpenter and volunteer at the Good Samaritan for over 30 years.  Born February 10, 1938, in Marsh Fork, he was the son of Emerson Ray Dickens (Virginia Kalinoski) and Clara nee Barker (Robert “Cotton” Dillon, Sr.).  His brothers: Kenneth, Thomas, Garry, and Brian Dickens (late); Robert Jr. and Timothy Dillon (late); His sisters: Delores Dickens Forney (late), Debbie Dillon Kinder and Cheri Dickens. Two fondest uncles Harry Dickens (late), who shared his love of fishing on Big Coal River and Buster and Marcella Barker (late), and a daughter of his heart, Marion Browning Valdez. Charles was a father, grandfather, and husband; a mentor, patriot, and dedicated citizen; and he was a humble servant leader. He was a great outdoorsman, conservationist, and preserved nature.  A lifetime member of the American Legion. He enjoyed spending time with his lovely wife Barbara Dickens, both were dedicated to helping others through community volunteerism.  Most importantly he loved and was loved. Devoted husband of Barbara nee Jones; loving father of Loretta (Mathew Monaco) Vandeborne, Michelle (Mike) Brooks, and (late) Petra St. Louis.  Cherished grandfather of Jeremiah (Nicole) St Louis, (late) Ginny Young, Christina (Bryce) Paul, Kaylynn Vermillion, Madison Vandeborne, Narissa (Dyllan) Cowart, Trevor Estep and Allen Vandeborne.   Adored great-grandchildren Norah, Noah, Ellison and Sebastian. On Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, friends, and family can visit from 11:30 to 1pm at Armstrong Funeral Home, a service will be held at Whitesville Presbyterian Church at 2pm with Erica Layton CP officiating. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Whitesville Presbyterian Church or the First Presbyterian Church of Colcord.

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