Charlie Mckenney

James Charles "Charlie" McKenney was the son of James Pearl and Renthea Ellen (Ricard) McKenney, born June 10, 1945 in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Charlie was a veteran of the US Army stationed at Ft. Eustis, Virginia; he also served as an aircraft electrician in Munich, Germany. He came to Port Charlotte, Florida in 1973 from Mims, Florida and worked for many years as a lineman for Florida Power and Light, retiring as a working foreman. Charlie led by example, and his devoted work ethics inspired many. Charlie loved the Lord and was a faithful member of Aurantia First Baptist Church in Mims where he served as youth director and music director, and was ordained as a deacon in 1966. After moving to Port Charlotte, Charlie served at First Baptist Church as a deacon, as an AWANA Cubbies leader, and 3 year-old's Sunday School teacher for 30 years. Over the years, "Mr. Charlie" had the opportunity to minister to hundreds of kids, including the children of those who were in his class when they were 3 year-olds themselves. He was also a member of a FAITH team, as well as participating in church camps, youth choir tours, and mission trips. Charlie lived a Godly life that drew people to the Lord, and he loved to share Jesus with those around him. Charlie passed away October 27, 2011 at his home surrounded by family; he was 66 years of age. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 45 years, Jo; son, Brian (Pamela) McKenney of North Port, Florida; granddaughter, Sophia of North Port Florida; mother, Renthea McKenney of Mims, Florida; sister, Barbara N. (David) Crabtree of Mims, Florida; and many others whose lives he touched. Memorial donations may be made to TideWell Hospice, 1144 Veronica Ave, Port Charlotte, FL 33952 or to First Baptist Church of Port Charlotte, 20035 Quesada Ave, Port Charlotte, FL 33952. Please indicate "Mission Trip" on Memo line.