Charles R. Shoemaker

Charles Robert Shoemaker was born September 18, 1963 at Fort Lewis Washington and departed this life on September 9, 2025 in Georgetown, South Carolina. Charles was the son of John W. and Glenna Jean Shoemaker.

Charles grew up in Graham Washington. He was the seventh of eight brothers and sisters. Charles became a bridgeman in 1986 and held a thirty-nine year career in the industry. Charles was among many crews who built superstructures such as the Tallmadge Bridge, the Hercules Project, the Battery Creek Bridge, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, the 264 ByPass and many more.

On July 1, 1984, Charles married the love of his life Lenice E. Hedghes. They recently celebrated their fortieth wedding anniversary. He raised three children, Joshuia Joseph Charles Shoemaker, Christina Olitha Lenice Shoemaker and Jeremiah Donald Lee Shoemaker. Charles loved his grandchildren. Shelby Lynn, Taylor Paige and Logan Blain.

Charles loved to laugh. His quick wit and analogies often allowed others to join his untroubled perspective. He truly cared about the people around him and he belonged in each world he touched. He had deep faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and tried to portray an image of what our Lord would be proud of. He often stated, “You either believe all or none of it”.

No sacrifice was ever too much to give. Charles worked tirelessly and was truly dedicated to his wife, family and to bridge life. He always wanted to share what he learned to anyone that would listen.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday September 20, 2025, at Old Lexington Baptist Church, 800 Old Lexington Road, Leesville, SC 29070.