Charles “Charlie” Fazende of Poplarville, Mississippi departed this life into God’s presence on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the age of 70. Charlie was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on January 19, 1955, to Robert and Doris Fazende.
Charlie dedicated his life to serving others, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, integrity and commitment to public safety. He began his career with the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department in 1988, later working with the Pearl River Basin Narcotics Task Force. In 1995, he joined the Poplarville Police Department, where he rose to captain and was soon after appointed Chief of Police. He faithfully led his hometown department until his retirement in 2015. After retirement wasn’t all that he thought it would be, Charlie still had the desire to be useful. He continued his calling to serve, taking on the role of Precinct Commander of Public Safety at Highland Community Hospital in Picayune. Whether in uniform or out, he was respected for his steady leadership, sound judgment, and deep care for people.
Above all, Charlie will be remembered for his devotion to family, his loyalty to friends, and the values of honesty and hard work that guided his life. His legacy is one of service, character, and love for his family and community. He was a protective and steadfast presence for his wife, children and grandchildren, teaching them to look after themselves and to stand strong in life. Those closest to him knew his loyalty ran deep, and that he would never do anything to jeopardize his character or integrity. Away from work, Charlie found joy on the water—whether fishing on the river or venturing out to Cat and Ship Island. At home, he took great pride in caring for his boat, often spending hours making sure it was spotless and ready for the next adventure. Like the true servant he was, Charlie volunteered his time to Brother's Keeper Ministries. He didn't have a designated role or title, he simply helped however he was useful. He was described as a man amongst men and will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. His family and friends will carry forward both his lessons and his love.
Charlie is preceded in death by his parents, Robert C. Fazende and Doris Miller Fazende; and his sister-in-law, Lisa G. Delahouysse.
Left to forever cherish his memory are his wife of 52 years, Marie Gauthreaux Fazende; sons, Chris Fazende (Sian) and Jason Fazende (Ana); daughter, Kimberly Fazende Foster; grandchildren, Miranda F. Lee (Josh), Lane Fazende (Caitlyn), Brody Fazende (Raegan), Cagan Boudreaux, Caitly Foster, Bella Fazende, Laiya Fazende, Cainin Miller, Adella Fazende, Wiley Fazende and Axel Fazende; great-grandchildren, Asher, Charlie Kate, Emmett, Tanner, Emery and Eli: brother, Donald Fazende; and his beloved in-laws, Betty Gauthreaux, Clayton Gauthreaux (Ann), Karen LaChute, Daniel Gauthreaux (Angelia) and Ronnie Gauthreaux. Charlie is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews, as well as an uncle, aunts, cousins, and many dear friends and colleagues.
There will be a visitation for Charlie at White Funeral Home in Poplarville on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM.
The funeral service, officiated by Reverend Michael Brown and Reverend Joe Bowman, will be at New Palestine Baptist Church at 12:00 PM on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Friends are invited to join the family for visitation from 10:00 AM until the service begins. Burial will follow in New Palestine Cemetery assisted by Chris Fazende, Jason Fazende, Brody Fazende, Cagan Boudreaux, Josh Lee and Lane Fazende serving as pallbearers. Asher Fazende, Emmett Lee and Axel Fazende will serve as honorary pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brother's Keepers Ministries at P.O. Box 57, 208 N. Main Street, Poplarville, MS 39470 in Charlie's memory.
