Charles R. Waldron
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles Ronaine Waldron, of Salem, Virginia, known to all as Charlie. Charlie was a beloved husband, father, papa, and friend, who left us peacefully on May 24, 2025 at the age of 73.
Charlie was born on March 6, 1953, to the late Wilson Isaac Waldron and Irene Light Waldron. Charlie’s parents instilled values of hard work, perseverance, and service, which Charlie and his beloved wife, Gail Waldron, passed to their children.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Rita Waldron Charnock, and Barbara Sue Waldron Williams and brother Ciscero Waldron.
Charlie is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Gail Waldron, and their children; C.J. Waldron (Jill), Chalica Waldron, Tracie Smith (Mike), Josh Waldron, and Anya Ogden (Marcus); siblings Ike Waldron, Sylvia Nolan, and David Waldron. Charlie was a proud grandpa to 11 grandchildren who will miss their Papa Charlie. Charlie’s legacy lives on through his family, whom he loved and who will carry his memory forward.
As a lifelong trucker, Charlie was known far and wide for his dedication to the road and the people with whom he came in contact. His work was more than a job—it was a passion and a legacy he carried with pride.
Beyond the highways, Charlie was a gifted mechanic who could fix just about anything with an engine. What made him truly special wasn’t just his skill with a wrench, but his generous heart. He spent countless hours helping friends, neighbors, and even strangers with their cars, never asking for anything in return. To Charlie, lending a hand was just the right thing to do.
Along with Charlie’s big heart, his knack for mischief and determination to laugh through life drew others to him; his garage was open to all for not only fixing cars but sharing a Dr. Pepper, a story, and a funny joke.
Charlie was a devoted Christian. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and volunteered much of his time to his belief from teaching primary children the gospel to using his beautiful bass voice in the ward choir.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, his family, friends and the many others whose lives he touched through his kindness and generosity.
The family will receive friends at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 6311 Wayburn Drive, Salem, Va 24153 on Friday June 6, 2025 from 9:00 until 10:00am. A memorial service to celebrate Charlie’s life will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Charlie’s spirit by lending a helping hand to someone in need, just as he so often did.
Your hands built more than engines-they built a legacy of hard work and service. Rest easy, Charlie.
