Deacon James Charles, 57, of Florence, SC passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. James was born on October 18, 1967 in Florence County. He was the son of the late Deacon Brunson Charles, Jr. and Ida Mae Charles. James dedicated his life to service, both in the military and in his community.

James was a proud graduate of Wilson High School Class of 1986. Later, he proudly served in the Air Force from December 15, 1986 to April 2, 1991, achieving the rank of Airman First Class. James' military career took him to various parts of the world, including a tour in Iceland. His commitment to his country was unwavering, and he was a source of inspiration to all who knew him.

Following his distinguished military service, James got his CDL, and became the owner of J&K Transportation, LLC where he took pleasure in owning and operating as a driver until his illness. James was a member of St. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church in Florence and served faithfully on the Deacon board, Baptist Men Ministry, and the Youth Committee. Known for his straight forward, yet caring nature, he left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and those he served and worked alongside. James was an avid sports fan, and he enjoyed watching his favorite teams, the Clemson Tigers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

James leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will forever by treasured by his devoted and beloved wife of 26 years, Kenya Charles; his children, Dominique Charles of Florence, SC and ShaMika Charles of Bangkok, Thailand; his mother, Ida Charles of Florence, SC; and his sister, Debra (Reginald) Darby of Columbia, SC; and a host of aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. His legacy of service, love, and dedication will forever be cherished by his family and friends.

Deacon James Charles, 57, of Florence, SC passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. James was born on October 18, 1967 in Florence County. He was the son of the late Deacon Brunson Charles, Jr. and Ida Mae Charles. James dedicated his life to service, both in the military and in his community.

James was a proud graduate of Wilson High School Class of 1986. Later, he proudly served in the Air Force from December 15, 1986 to April 2, 1991, achieving the rank of Airman First Class. James' military career took him to various parts of the world, including a tour in Iceland. His commitment to his country was unwavering, and he was a source of inspiration to all who knew him.

Following his distinguished military service, James got his CDL, and became the owner of J&K Transportation, LLC where he took pleasure in owning and operating as a driver until his illness. James was a member of St. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church in Florence and served faithfully on the Deacon board, Baptist Men Ministry, and the Youth Committee. Known for his straight forward, yet caring nature, he left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and those he served and worked alongside.James was an avid sports fan, and he enjoyed watching his favorite teams, the Clemson Tigers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

James leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will forever by treasured by his devoted and beloved wife of 26 years, Kenya Charles; his children, Dominique Charles of Florence, SC and ShaMika Charles of Bangkok, Thailand; his mother, Ida Charles of Florence, SC; and his sister, Debra (Reginald) Darby of Columbia, SC; and a host of aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. His legacy of service, love, and dedication will forever be cherished by his family and friends.

The family is receiving friends at 402 Charles Street, Florence, SC.