Charles Ernest Mcavoy

“The man is a success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much…who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children, and leaves the world better than he found it.” 
These words, written over 100 years ago, reflect the man born “Charles Ernest McAvoy”, and in the hearts of those who love him. Perhaps Charlie’s thrifty nature arose from his birth during the Great Depression, on February 9th, 1933 in San Francisco, California. Born to Harold and Barbara McAvoy, Charlie (also known as Chuck, Charles, or Mac) spent his early years in Compton CA. He grew up in simpler times when kids were content playing marbles and “kick the can”, and listening to the Lone Ranger on the radio.   In the 1940’s, while World War II raged across Europe, the McAvoys moved to South Pasadena where Charlie attended South Pasedena/San Marino High School, graduating in 1951. He continued his education at Pasadena City College, then began his career at Douglas Aircraft in Santa Monica. He loved his time in “So Pass” as he called it and started his family there.

Though being a soldier was never on Charlie’s “bucket list”, he honorably served his country in the army from 1953 - 1955 during the Korean War, where he was stationed at Fort Lewis in Washington State. Charlie’s keen intelligence was evident as he graduated from Los Angeles State College earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1965 and Master’s in mechanical engineering in 1971. His love of education grew through the years and he taught mathematics at a local community college. He was an avid reader, and would often be seen with a book in his hand. The majority of his career was spent working for Aerojet from which he retired in 1996. Charlie’s most difficult struggle came when he was diagnosed that same year with prostate cancer and given a prognosis of 3-5 years to live, and he fought hard for extra time to spend with his family. So many of us have been blessed by the fact that he lived 25 years after his diagnosis. During this time, he met his wife, Brenda, and they married in 1999. They enjoyed 22 years of peaceful companionship. They found joy in watching their grandchildren grow up and flourish, often attending their school, church and sporting events. Time was always more important than “things” to Charlie. He was known for his generosity to friends, family and charity over himself. He loved the Lord, and had a humble, thoughtful faith which grew during this time. He served as an usher and made many friends at the American Lutheran Church of Prescott.
Charlie and Brenda moved to Prescott AZ in 2006 where he found quiet, peace and contentment. He felt blessed to have his two daughters, Robyn and Shannon, as well as their mother and good friend, Lenora, living close by. These two families became one and gathered together for many happy occasions. And more recently, Charlie was blessed to have his oldest daughter, Teri and family move to Flagstaff. He also enjoyed time with friends, refinishing old rifles, watching auto racing, TV shows about space, cars, history and science. He had a dry sense of humor, laughed ‘til he cried, and loved living in Prescott.

The arms of Jesus embraced Charlie in his favorite place – home - early in the morning of June 6th, 2021. He leaves behind his loving family: His wife Brenda, former wife and friend, Lenora, 3 daughters, 9 grandchildren, one great-grandson, sister Joanie, and countless family & friends. Charles Ernest McAvoy, 1933-2021
No longer by our side, but forever in our hearts.

The family has requested in lieu of flowers, donations be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.  Please see link below.
Thank you