Mr. Charlie Bernard Hudnell

Charlie was born on April 12, 1942, in Homeland, Florida, to the late Ernest and Helen Hudnell. Throughout his 84 years, Charlie lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, faith, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. Above all, he was a man who believed in service—not simply as something one did, but as a way of life.

Charlie proudly served his country as a Captain in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. He was assigned to the 8th Signal Battalion and served in Germany before receiving an honorable discharge. His military decorations included the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and one Overseas Service Bar. His military service reflected the discipline, responsibility, and dedication that would characterize the rest of his life.

Professionally, Charlie dedicated 25 years, from 1965 to 1990, to the United States Department of Agriculture Farmers Home Administration (USDA FmHA). In 1976, he was appointed District Director, overseeing 18 counties. He served the agency and the communities entrusted to his leadership with distinction until his retirement.

Charlie was also a Free and Accepted Mason and devoted countless hours to civic and community service. His leadership included serving as Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 192, Haverhill Baseball Commissioner, and Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Sickle Cell Foundation in West Palm Beach. He was also a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., where he served as Keeper of Finance.

His faith was central to his life. For more than 45 years, Charlie faithfully served St. John Missionary Baptist Church in West Palm Beach. During his many years of service to the church, he held several positions of spiritual and organizational leadership, including Chairman of the Trustee Board, Deacon, and Elder. His commitment to his church reflected his lifelong belief in serving God by serving others.

In 1966, Charlie married Sandra K. Hudnell, and together they built a family rooted in love, faith, perseverance, and service. They remained devoted to one another until Sandra's passing in 2011. Their union was blessed with two children, Charete Bina Hudnell Marshall and Charlton B. Hudnell.

Charlie leaves to cherish his memory his only living sister, Hazel Hudnell; his daughter, Charete Bina Hudnell Marshall; his son, Charlton B. Hudnell; and his eight grandchildren: Aaron, Charmond, Chardai, Charla, Jala, Charlton P., Nyima, and Charlton I. H. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Skyler, Carter, and Charlotte, along with extended family, friends, fraternity brothers, church family, and countless others whose lives he touched.

Charlie B. Hudnell was a soldier, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, church leader, mentor, fraternity brother, community servant, and friend. From serving his country to strengthening his community, guiding young people, supporting his church, and caring for his family, Charlie spent a lifetime giving of himself to others. His was truly a life of service and a legacy of love.

A viewing and wake will be held Saturday, September 19, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 10:00 a.m. at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Charlie’s earthly work is complete, but the impact of his service, wisdom, faith, and love remains in the lives of all who knew him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever in our hearts.

A Visitation will be held at St John Missionary Baptist Church, 2000 A. E. Isaacs Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 on September 19, 2026 at 9:00am. A Celebration of Life will follow at 10:00am at the same location. A Committal Service will occur at Royal Palm Memorial Gardens, 5601 Greenwood Avenue, West Palm Beach, Florida 33407. Log on to royaplamfuneralhome.com to share memories and leave condolences. Services are entrusted to Royal Palm Funeral Home.