Gerald (Gary) Leon Charles

Gerald "Gary" Charles, of Springfield passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2015 at the age of 66, at Wilsons Creek Nursing & Rehab Health Care, after a long illness. He was born September 17, 1948 in Lockwood, to Leon and Roberta (Gillman) Charles. Gary graduated from Lockwood High School in 1966. After graduation, Gary attended Moler Barber College in Kansas City, MO. Upon graduation, he went to work for Jack Rogers at Jack's Barber Shop, in Springfield. On April 20, 1968, he married E. Joyce Brunner in Lockwood. After nine years working at Jack's Barber Shop, Gary decided to go into partnership with Ray Chilton at the El Dorado Arms Barber Shop. He closed that shop in 2008 and went to work at the Style Barber Shop until his retirement April 2011. Gary was a long time member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Springfield. Gary enjoyed woodworking for many years, making birdhouses and furniture for his home. Gary later enjoyed flying his model airplane with The Ozark Mountain Barnstormers model airplane club. Gary always enjoyed talking to his customers and never knew a stranger. Gary was a kind and thoughtful man and will be missed by his family and friends. Gary is survived by his loving wife Joyce of 48 years; his father Leon Charles of Lockwood; sister Glenda Gilmore and husband Mike of Ashland; and two nephews Andy Gilmore of Columbia and Tim Gilmore and wife Kristy of Holts Summit. Gary is preceded in death by his mother Roberta Charles. A visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Friday, July 31, 2015, in Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2852 S. Dayton Springfield. The funeral service will follow at11:00 A.M. in the church. Burial will follow at 2:00 P.M. Friday, July 31, 2015 at Red Oak Cemetery, La Russell. Memorial contributions may be to Redeemer Lutheran School, Hospice or a Charity of your choice.