Charles A. Poston

January 23, 1911 - March 29, 2010

Charles Alexander Poston, 99, of Port Arthur, Texas, passed away with God's peace and dignity on Monday, March 29, 2010 at Magnolia Manor Nursing Home in Groves, Texas. He was born in Winchester, Ohio on January 23, 1911, to Charles Duncan and Mary (Cunningham) Poston. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 58 years, Norma Lee (Spicer) Poston. He is survived by his son, Charles "Chuck" D. Poston and his wife, Becky of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; grandsons Jeffrey Poston of Ashburn, Virginia; and Kevin Poston of Portland, Oregon. In his recent years he was well cared for by his physician and friend, Dr. William (Dub) George, and his compassionate and loving staff. During the last couple years of his life, Charles was greatly loved and unconditionally cared for by his devoted friend, Gwendolyn Beard. Others that held a special place in his heart were Fred Day, Red Garrison and family, Nora Riojas and family, Cynthia Davis and family, Mattie Dellinger, Kate Kimbro, Rosalie Caughlin, Eve Tarantur, the staff of the Port Arthur Community Retirement Center, as well as the staff of the Magnolia Manor Nursing Home. A host of other friends too numerous to list also helped make Charles a rare and adored servant of God and a priceless friend. He slowed down his journey in life after retiring as a Chief Chemist with the Great Lakes Carbon Corporation and then settling down in Bridge City. In his dedication to God, Charles gave much time and energy to spiritual education through his long membership with the First Christian Church where he also served as a past Board Chairman, an Elder, a singer with the Choraliers, and most significantly as a devoted Sunday School Teacher for decades. In addition, Charles was devoted to and supportive of the Masonic Lodge for over 65 years; involved as a Past Patron of the Order of Eastern Star; a member of the Society of Wireless Pioneers, a life member of the Quarter Century Wireless Association, and a past President of the Knife & Fork Club. Additionally, he served as past President of the United Board of Missions, formally known as "Center for Christian Service" and was a significant fundraiser for the UBM of Port Arthur. He also served as a member of the original Board of the Samaritan Counseling Center (Presbyterian Church of the Covenant). He was Editor of "The Spotlight", Port Arthur Camera Club Publication, and also found time to devote to the growing of exquisite flowers and plants. His funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 1, 2010 at 10 a.m. at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home in Groves with burial to be held at Greenlawn Cemetery. Wednesday evening visitation and celebration of life will be on March 31, between 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Charles' memory may be directed to the United Board of Missions, 6650 Ninth Avenue, Port Arthur, Texas, 77642-6411.