William Charles Willoughby Dayton Denby

Charlie was born in New York City, New York to William Denby and Laura Adams Dayton. Charlie was descended from Andrew Adams, signer of the Articles of Confederation, Charles W. Dayton, New York Supreme Justice and Postmaster General of NYC and Ralph Dayton, founder of Southampton, Long Island. He and his wife Joanne, raised their family in Lloyd Harbor, New York prior to retiring to Stuart, Florida.

Charlie was predeceased by Joanne, his wife of 58 years and the light of his life, and his daughter Laura (Stuart, Fla). He is survived by his children: son William (San Diego, CA) wife, Lynne, children William and Alexander; son John (Williamsburg, VA) wife Carol, children, John (Lauren) and Laura (Chris); Laura’s children Dennis, Kimberly (Scott), and Tracy (Kenny); daughter Elizabeth (Patterson, NY) husband Brian, children Matthew (Katie) and Samuel; and daughter Susan (Virginia Beach, VA) husband William, children Peter and Joanne. Charlie was also beloved by his 7 great grandchildren with one on the way.

Charlie was a choir boy at Trinity Church in Poughkeepsie and enjoyed singing his entire life. Growing up on a farm, he adored nature and all animals. Charlie attended St. Mark’s Preparatory School in Southborough Massachusetts and was educated at Harvard University, Columbia University and New York University. He retired from Scales Air Compressor as their Accountant and Business Manager in 1995.

Charlie served in the Korean War and received the following service medals: CIB Korean Service Medal, UN Service Medal W/3, Bronze Service Stars and National Defense Service Medal.

An avid bridge player, Charlie was the USA National Bridge Champion in 1960. He will be remembered as a voracious reader (reading one book per day), a competitive tennis and poker player and for his quick wit and intellect. Education was a priority and he worked ardently on facilitating his children’s admission and success in college and post college. Most of all, he was the lynchpin to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His devotion and generosity to them was endless and selfless. He was simply extraordinary and kind. The absolute most important person in their lives. His wisdom, knowledge, guidance and advice will be forever cherished.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Camp Viva in memory of Charlie. https://www.fsw.org/camp-viva.