Charles E Townsend was born in Birmingham, Alabama on February 12, 1932 to Charles and Lena Townsend. He departed this life on April 13, 2024. He was the second of two children and was proceeded in death by his parents and sister, Lucile Townsend Joseph Tarver. He professed Christ at an early age and became a member of St Mark's Episcopal Church in the late 40's.

He was united in holy matrimony on December 28, 1956 in Miami, Florida to Norma Thayer Stirrup (who proceeded him in death). To this union two children were born.

He was an advocate for education as is shown by his drive. Charles graduated from Parker High School in 1949 and graduated from Tennessee State University in 1953 with an AB degree in Chemistry. He continued his education and received a MS in Chemistry from Alabama A&M in 1964, Fellowship in Chemistry in 1965 from Hope College, Master of Science in Education/Administration and  Education Specialist degree from Alabama A&M in 1966 and 1969 respectively.

In between his educational pursuits, he served in the US Army military band from 1954 to 1956. During this time he received the National Defense Service and Good Conduct Medals.

Charles' work career focused on education. He was a math and science teacher at Western Olin from 1956 to 1967, where he was promoted and served as Assistant Principal until 1977. In 1977 he became Principal of Jackson-Olin High School (formerly Western Olin) until he retired in 1992.

He received numerous awards thru out his career. They included the Danford Foundation Fellowship, Outstanding Service Award  from Vocational Department, Birmingham City Schools, Phi Delta Kappa Fraternity and the Mayor's Award for outstanding service.

He was also a Life member of the Tennessee State University National Alumni Association and a devoted and dedicated member of the local Birmingham Chapter.

In his leisure time he was an avid golfer and spent every available hour playing the sport that he loved until his health began to fail. He was one of the founding members of the Birmingham Vulcan Golf Club and became the first serving president.

He leaves to cherish his memory, two children, Gena and Michael Townsend both of Atlanta, GA; two grandchildren, Erin and Collin Townsend, Atlanta, GA, brother-in-law E.W. Franklin III (Barbara)Stirrup, Miami, FL special friend, Patricia Blakely and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and many loving friends.

Memories are lights that burn to keep the heart alive