Charles Henry Lederer Jr.

1937–2026

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Charles “Henry” Lederer, Jr., age 88, formerly of Falls Church, Virginia, and a resident of Maryland since 2021. Henry passed away peacefully at his home on September 24, with his beloved wife, Helen, by his side, following a long and courageous struggle with Parkinson’s disease.

Henry was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, businessman, and friend. Above all, he was a family man. His family meant the world to him, and the life he built was centered around the people he loved most. His strength, determination, humor, work ethic, and devotion to those he loved will continue to live on through generations of his family.

From an early age, Henry had a natural curiosity and a gift for figuring out how things worked. As a young man, he developed a passion for cars and short-wave radios and became a talented, self-taught tinkerer. His strong work ethic also began early. While in high school, Henry had a newspaper route and even won a bicycle in a delivery contest while working and saving toward his first car.

After graduating from high school, Henry’s interest in electronics led him to Shrader Sound, Inc. in Georgetown, the first high-fidelity stereo store in Washington, D.C. Building upon his knowledge and experience, Henry eventually founded his own business, Lederer’s Sound Service, Inc. What began as a home-based operation grew into a successful family business, with locations in Tysons Corner and ultimately Falls Church, Virginia.

Henry took great pride in his work and believed deeply in the value of an honest day’s labor. He passed that dedication on to his son, Charles “Chuck” Henry Lederer, IV, who began working alongside his father in the family business at just 13 years old. Chuck continues to operate the business in Falls Church today, where it proudly celebrates 50 years in “The Little City.” Henry’s entrepreneurial spirit, craftsmanship, and dedication remain an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.

A hardworking man who rarely stayed still, Henry always seemed to be looking for something that needed to be done, something that could be fixed, or another project to take on. Sitting still simply wasn’t in his nature. His determination and work ethic made a lasting impression on his children and grandchildren and taught them lessons that extended far beyond the family business.

Outside of work, Henry remained a lifelong car enthusiast. One special piece of that passion continues today through his 1975 Corvette Stingray, which his son Chuck still drives. Henry was also an avid bowler and participated in many Northern Virginia bowling leagues alongside Chuck and his daughter-in-law, Terry, creating memories that his family will always treasure.

Henry also enjoyed traveling and experiencing new places, creating many wonderful memories along the way. Yet, no matter how far his travels took him or how much he enjoyed the journey, he was always eager to return home. Home was where Henry was happiest—surrounded by his family and the people he loved.

Henry is survived by his beloved wife, Helen; his sister, Lillian; his son, Charles “Chuck” Henry Lederer, IV, and his wife, Terry; and his stepsons, Carlin and his wife, Kim; Dan and his wife, Glenda; and Christopher and his wife, Maria. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Henry Lederer, Sr. and Regina Lederer; his sisters, June and Elsie Mae; and his beloved grandson, Daniel Jr.

Henry’s passing leaves an emptiness that words cannot fully express, but his family will forever carry pieces of him with them. They will remember his hardworking hands, his determination, his love of cars, his need to always keep busy, the lessons he taught through the way he lived, and, most of all, the love and devotion he had for his family.

Henry leaves behind much more than memories. He leaves a legacy of love, family, hard work, strength, perseverance, and dedication. The values he lived by will continue through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, ensuring that a part of Henry will always remain with those who knew and loved him.

After 88 years filled with family, hard work, accomplishments, travels, laughter, and countless memories, Henry’s journey here has come to an end.

May he rest peacefully, finally home.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a favorite charity in Henry’s memory.