Charlene Wallace Bliss

Charlene Wallace Bliss, beloved wife of the late Ronald G. Bliss and mother of Erik G. Bliss and Jason W. Bliss, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026, at the age of 83. She spent her final moments surrounded by family, friends, and devoted caregivers in Austin, Texas.

A graduate of Temple High School and Texas Tech University, Charlene overcame extraordinary challenges early in adulthood. While Charlene was newly married and raising their first child, Erik, her husband Ron, a U.S. Air Force F-105 pilot, was deployed to Vietnam, where he was held as a prisoner of war for six and a half years after his plane was shot down. During his captivity, Charlene remained devoted to their young family and taught chemistry and mathematics in Temple, Texas, to support herself and her son.

Following Ron’s homecoming and the birth of their second son, Jason, the family settled in Houston, where Charlene devoted herself to raising her children and creating a loving home. Known for her beautifully kept home and memorable Sunday dinners, she was a constant presence in the lives of her children and grandchildren, always ready with a ride or cheering from the stands.

An avid traveler, Charlene explored destinations across Asia, Europe, South America, the Caribbean, and Australia. Her remarkable experiences included dining at the White House, traveling aboard the Orient Express, flying on the Concorde, and attending the Academy Awards.

Charlene is survived by her two sons, Erik Bliss (husband Mark Lee) and Jason Bliss (wife Neilia Bliss); her four grandchildren, Gabrielle, Holt, Ryan, and EJ Bliss; and her brother, Bruce Wallace. She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents, Charles Patton Wallace and Jimmye Wallace; and her siblings, Billy Wallace, James Wallace, and Patsy Rittenhouse Wallace.

Pursuant to her wishes, she will be interred with her husband at a small graveside ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or MD Anderson Cancer Center. Donations are entirely optional.