Paul D. Charles 1924-2005

Paul Dean Charles of Altadena, California went peacefully home to be with the Lord, June 8, 2005 with his wife at his side. Paul was born December 14, 1924 in Hamlin, Kansas. The son of the Late Rev. Jacob and Ella Charles, he is survived by his wife, Beulah (Bea) of 55 years, a daughter and two sons, and their families.

Paul and Beulah were married June 24, 1949 in Pennsylvania. In 1950, he graduated from Upland College, Upland, California with a B.A. degree. Later in 1961, he earned a B.D. degree from the Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. He was ordained to the ministry on their second wedding anniversary. He was a faithful, willing servant for the Lord, serving as pastor of three Brethren in Christ churches. Fresh out of college, the couple moved to the San Joaquin Valley of Central California.

Paul’s first charge was pastor of the Community Church in Waukena, California. During the five years living there, daughter Beverly and son Steven were born. In 2004, Paul and Beulah were honored as they shared in the 100 year anniversary of the Waukena Church.

The family moved to Brown County, Kansas in 1955 and ministered there for four years during which time their son Paul Douglas was born. Paul pastored the same Brethren in Christ Church that his father, had pastored for 35 years – the Pleasant Hill BIC Church near Hamlin, KS. After living in Kansas City two years, Paul and his family moved to Pasadena, California, where he pastored the Pasadena BIC Church on Altadena Drive for seven years.

In 1968, the family started attending Lake Avenue Church in Pasadena while keeping their membership at the Upland BIC Church.

Late in the evening of May 25 th, as Paul and Beulah flew home after a week’s visit to Pennsylvania, they marveled at the sight of three beautiful sunsets. Paul’s sunset of life began the following evening. God’s promises of hope continue to give the family comfort and peace.

Paul’s life was characterized by his love for the Lord and his willingness to serve Him. Equally evident was his deep love and tender, caring spirit for his wife, children and grandchildren. This is the legacy he has left to his family and the church.

Bishop Perry Engle

WELCOME