Charles Glenn Sills

January 28, 1934 – September 4, 2025

Charles Glenn Sills, age 91, of Madison, Mississippi, stepped into the arms of his Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, on September 4, 2025. Born in Georgetown, Mississippi, during the height of the Great Depression, to Thomas Denver Sills and Alma Pauline Little Sills, Charles lived a life marked by faith, leadership, music, and devotion to family and community. He was also deeply devoted to his faith in Jesus, which guided every aspect of his life.

God’s Holy Word reminds us that “Absent from the body is present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8), and we rejoice in the promise that Charles is now at peace in the presence of his Redeemer. Jesus also promised that “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). Charles Glenn’s service on earth is now complete, and his journey has come full circle in the presence of the Lord.

A proud graduate of Central High School in Jackson, Mississippi, Charles was a gifted musician who played both the bassoon and saxophone. He performed in the school’s marching band and was honored with an invitation to play in the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. His musical journey took him across the United States, where he performed with both the band and symphony, sharing his talent and joy with audiences nationwide. Music was not just a hobby it was a lifelong passion that brought him joy and connection with others.

Charles developed a passion for building and construction early in life while working alongside his father in the family business, Sills and Sons Flooring and Tile. That experience laid the foundation for a distinguished career in construction. He later led a successful construction company responsible for overseeing the building of homes and commercial properties throughout Mississippi and the Southeast—including numerous Popeyes and Little Caesars locations. Charles guided the company with vision and integrity, managing operations and teams that helped shape communities.

He went on to serve as the Madison County, Mississippi Building Inspector for 19 years, passing the certification exam on his first attempt—a testament to his diligence and expertise. His work helped ensure safety and quality in every project, and he took great pride in serving the county he called home.

Charles was a faithful member of Highland Colony Baptist Church, where he remained active in fellowship and worship until the end of his life. His faith was the cornerstone of his character, and his church family was dear to him.

He was married to Bonnie Jewel Sills, his beloved wife and partner in life. Bonnie’s children Rhonda Georgen Rush, Michael Paul Georgen, Constance Lee Georgen and their families held a special place in his heart.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Denver Sills and Alma Pauline Little Sills; his brothers: Thomas Denver Sills, Jr., Milford Langston Sills, Billy Joseph Sills, and Richard Jerry Sills; and his son Joel Milford Sills and his loving wife Bonnie Jewel Sills.

He is survived by his sisters: Peggy Sills Araiza (Bill), Janelle Sills Fortenberry (Jim), and Jane Sills Raffield (Larry). He is also survived by his children: Debbie Sills Duke (Steven), Wanda Jo “Pixie” Sills Roberson, Cathy Sills Blackwell, Jennifer Sills Hanusch (Heiko)

Charles was blessed with numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, each of whom brought him great joy and pride.

To those who knew and loved him, Charles was affectionately known as “Sham”—a nickname given to him in early childhood that stayed with him throughout his life. It was a name that reflected the warmth, humor, and closeness he shared with his family.

He was also an avid Ole Miss fan, proudly cheering on the Rebels throughout his life.

Charles Glenn Sills will be remembered for his musical brilliance, his leadership in construction, his unwavering faith, and the love he gave to his family and community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the music he shared, and the faith that guided him home.

A visitation for Charles will be held Thursday, September 11, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Parkway Funeral Home, 1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, MS 39157. Funeral service will occur Friday, September 12, 2025 at 10:00 AM, in the chapel at Parkway Funeral Home. Committal will occur following the funeral service at Lakewood Memorial Park Pavilion, 6000 Clinton Blvd, Jackson, MS 39209.