Goodyear, Arizona - On September 11, 2025, our family lost a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Charles A. Gilchrist was born December 12, 1944 in Mobile, Alabama and grew up in South Bend, Indiana where he met his wife, Mary Ellen Vaughn. They shared 62 years of marriage and raised three children — Melanie Ross (Lance), Charles Jr., and Kelly Rose. He is also survived by his sister, Dwillow Smith and brother, Luther Carl Gilchrist.

Charles moved to Arizona in 1967 and made a home for his family in the Goodyear area. He retired from Honeywell in 2007 and spent the next years enjoying the fruits of his labors.

He was blessed with ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, each of whom he adored. Charles had a special connection with every member of his family, always knowing how to listen, how to guide, and how to show his love in meaningful ways. They turned to him — for his wisdom, his creativity, and his ability to fix anything.

We invite family and friends to join us in celebrating his life. Rosary and Remembrance on September 24, 2025 starting at 4:30 pm at Holy Cross Cemetery Chapel in Avondale. Mass will be held on September 25, 2025 at 1:00 pm at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Avondale, followed immediately by the inurnment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit will forever remain in our hearts.