Charles Michael Brindell

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Major Charles Michael Brindell, USAF (Ret.), announces his passing on October 15, 2025, at 7:30 a.m. A man whose quiet strength anchored his family and whose devotion to service spanned nearly three decades in the United States Air Force, he leaves behind a legacy of honor, love, and integrity.

Early Life and Education

Charles Michael Brindell was born on February 28, 1947, in Wilmington, North Carolina, to Raymond Albert Brindell and Margaret Ann (Carr) Brindell, and was later raised by his stepfather, Jack Prout Dudney.

From an early age, he displayed deep curiosity, discipline, and compassion—traits that guided his every pursuit.

He graduated from Westbury High School and went on to attend UNC Wilmington, Troy State University, and Webster University, where he developed the foundation for his lifelong commitment to leadership, learning, and service.

Military Career and Service

Charles Michael Brindell proudly served in the United States Air Force for over 28 years, from June 1968 until his retirement in February 1997, attaining the rank of Major. His distinguished career earned him numerous accolades, including recognition as Junior Officer of the Year (1981) and the Outstanding Faculty Award from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for his excellence as an Air Force ROTC instructor.

As Assistant Professor of Aerospace Studies at Detachment 157, he mentored and inspired countless young officers, helping the detachment earn recognition as one of the top units in AFROTC. He was further commended for his leadership and innovation in advancing Air Force technology initiatives, including his pivotal role in organizing the First and Second Annual Air Force Small Computer Conferences in the early 1980s.

Charles’s time in uniform was marked not only by achievement but by humility, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to excellence. His steadfast character, patience, and humor made him a leader others wanted to follow.

Marriage and Family

On April 20, 1974, Charles married the love of his life, Ranee, beginning a marriage that would span more than fifty years. The two first met at a restaurant near the military exchange where Ranee worked as a cashier—Charles visited each morning, and in time, a lifelong love story was born.

Together, they built a home rooted in faith, warmth, and laughter, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in 2024 surrounded by loved ones.

Charles is survived by his devoted wife, Ranee, and their beloved daughter, Maggie Watt, along with her husband, Chris Watt, and their son, Nolan Watt.

He is also remembered with love by his brother Richard Dudney, brother David Dudney, and sister Cindy Prause; as well as by his nieces, nephews, and extended family, who will continue to carry forward his spirit of kindness and humor in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Jim Dudney, Jack Dudney, and Ted Dudney.

Civilian Career and Interests

Following his military retirement, Charles continued his path of service and innovation through a successful civilian career as an ITS Project Manager with TxDOT, PBS&J (Atkins), and AECOM, where his expertise in technology and systems management helped shape modern infrastructure across Texas.

A lifelong learner, Charles became a licensed Amateur Radio General Class Operator (KJ5ICO), certified by the Federal Communications Commission in 2024. He was active in the Parks on the Air (POTA) community and found joy in connecting with others across the airwaves while exploring nature’s quiet spaces.

An avid RVer and traveler, Charles loved the freedom of the open road, visiting new places and discovering beauty in simple moments. He was also a dedicated photographer, capturing the world through a lens that reflected his gratitude for life and its wonders.

Community and Mentorship

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Charles’s greatest legacy was the way he touched lives. Friends and colleagues remember him for his wit, wisdom, and warmth, sharing that he brought “so many joys and smiles into so many lives.”

Those who worked alongside him describe him as both a mentor and a friend, offering guidance and encouragement long after careers diverged. One coworker shared that his advice on life and leadership continued to shape her path years later.

During his years stationed abroad, Charles and Ranee opened their hearts and home to others—serving their church community in Italy, where they faithfully brought food each weekend and spent time sharing conversation and comfort with those in need.

They also extended kindness to visiting cadets and students, welcoming them like family and creating unforgettable memories of travel, laughter, and belonging. Acts like these reflected the core of who Charles was: a man who believed in giving, teaching, and connecting deeply with others.

Legacy

Charles Michael Brindell’s life was defined by service—to his nation, his family, and everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was a man of humility and quiet faith, whose humor, steadiness, and genuine care left a mark on every life he touched.

To his loved ones, he was a teacher, a protector, and a gentle presence who led not with words but with example. His legacy lives on through Ranee, Maggie Watt, Chris Watt, and Nolan Watt; through the many officers and colleagues he mentored; and through the lasting ripple of kindness he created in every community he entered.

He will be remembered for his courage, compassion, and calm spirit—and for the way he made the world brighter simply by being in it.

Funeral Arrangements

A visitation will be held on October 27, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:45 am at the American Heritage Funeral Home, located at 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.

Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will take place at the same venue from 11:45 am to 12:45 pm.

A Committal Service will be held at the Houston National Cemetery, located at 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038, from 1:15 pm to 1:45 pm with a Reception to follow at American Heritage Funeral Home.

In Loving Memory

“So many joys and smiles you brought into so many lives, my friend. I will always remember the wit and wisdom of your manner.”

— From a friend and colleague