Charles Henry May

Beloved husband, father, grandfather and love to many, Charles (“Charlie" “Chuck”) Henry May’s life did not come to an end when he received his angel wings on August 16, 2021, because he was surrounded by his loved ones, who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. Chuck was 90, just a few weeks away from 91, when his sun set.

Chuck was born in Stroud, Oklahoma in 1930. He traveled his way across the nation with his parents and siblings, many of whom settled in Tulare, California, in 1948. In 1950, Chuck married the love of his life, Nadine, in Dinuba, CA. Chuck served in the Army from 1951 through 1953, during the Korean War. Of his many jobs in the Army, his favorite was driving the brass around. He said they had a lot of fun, he had numerous great stories, and some of his kids and grandkids realize this particular job is probably where and why they got their heavy foot.

The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Chuck. He loved fishing more than any other outdoor activity. He loved spending time with his plethora of “kids,” and doing anything to make his wife of 71 years, Nadine, happy as all “get out.” Chuck’s love of life was contagious to all he came in contact with.

Chuck was born to Robert Calvin and Maudie Florence Lee May, both deceased; his siblings, who all predeceased Chuck, were Robert Melvin May (Theresa-deceased), Julia Irene May Crawford (Samuel-deceased), Willie Frances May, and Hollis Lenora May Mullins. Chuck is survived by his wife, Ina Nadine May. Chuck and Nadine had two children: Jerry Wayne Miller May (deceased) and is survived by his daughter, Linda Charlene May Martin (Steve). Chuck is survived by 10 grandchildren, and 20 great-grand children. They are: Derek May (Cailey); Travis and Lisa May (Selah); Leah and Sabra Martin (Christian, Genevive, Keana, Jeremiah); Delaina Martin and Joseph Perricone (Alivia, Samantha); Jonathan and Melanie Martin (Zeke, Jerusalem); Andrea Martin and Antonio Manuel Vaz Antunes (Antonio Nuno, Lucia); Karinne and Kenny Sames (Kaleb, Karli); Annie “Eliza” Martin Moon (Atreyu); Krysta and Jesse Corona (Nova, Opal); and Donovan and Angie Martin (Donna, Richard, Ivy). Chuck is also survived by so many others whom he loved tremendously, who loved him tremendously, and whom Chuck considered his children, grandchildren or simply and always part of the family.

Paraphrasing the beautiful words of Roy Lessin, Chuck was not here by chance, but by God’s choosing. God’s hands formed him and made him the ultimate person he was. He was one of a kind. God allowed Chuck to be here at this time in history to fulfill His (and Chuck’s) special purpose for this generation. In our words, we wholeheartedly believe Chuck’s special purpose was to gladly and unquestioningly infuse our lives with love, joy, laughter, and a sense of inclusiveness and belonging in Chuck’s wonderful universe that we all wanted to be a part of.

A military graveside service for Chuck will be held at Miramar National Cemetery on October 1, 2021, at 1:30 p.m., followed by a celebration of life at the La Mesa American Legion, 8118 University Avenue, La Mesa, CA. Chuck loved his country western music and attire, as well as his Hawaiian shirts. Please feel free to dress in one of these themes in his honor.