Charles Curtis Courtney

With deep love and admiration, we announce the peaceful passing of Charles Curtis Courtney Sr., age 94, on July 28, 2025 in Woodstock, Georgia. 

Born on November 6, 1930, Charles carried with him a charismatic spirit, a sharp wit, and his love of dancing was legendary. He loved working outdoors and was a “Mr. Fix-It” around the house. He had a lifelong love of cars and often measured the chapters of his life by the cars he proudly owned and maintained. Charles married the love of his life, Betty Jean Jordan, on June 25, 1950, in Covington, Louisiana, beginning a remarkable journey of 75 years together. Their recent vow renewal in Woodstock, GA, was a testament to their enduring devotion. 

Charles proudly served in the United States Air Force for 28 years, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant. His career in Avionics Maintenance took him and his beloved family across the country and overseas. They travelled and made friends around the world, as they raised four children born in three different states. Charles also served three remote tours to Guam and he was a distinguished recipient of the Bronze Star for his significant technical support of B-52 aircraft deployed during Operation Arc Light in response to the Vietnam Tet Offensive. Among his many postings, Charles served two memorable tours in England, where he and the family formed deep friendships that would span continents and generations. Charles remained in touch with many of these friends for decades, with visits, letters, and shared memories. Charles also took great enjoyment in being the Scoutmaster of Troop 170, where he shared the values of the Boys Scouts of America with his son and 30 other young men. His son, Chuck, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout under his guidance and leadership. After retiring from the military, Charles continued to serve his community as an Electronics Professor at the Arkansas College of Technology, inspiring students from 1979 to 1994.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife Jean; his 4 children Charles Courtney Jr. (Pam), Shayne Engle, Jeanine Krenz (Robert), and Susan Maxon (Michael); 9 grandchildren: Sean (Rebecca), Allison, Chris (Meghan), Rebecca (Rick), Robert (Lindsey), Robin (Ben), Jordan (Chris), Brent (Clare), and Corey (Steve); and 14 great-grandchildren: Nora, Grace Ann, Adalynn, Lincoln, Stella, Tatum, Maxwell, Brody, Chip, Jamie, Cameron, Peyton, Harrison and Wyatt. Charles is predeceased by one great-grandchild, Joseph Engle.

We will have a graveside ceremony, with military honors, at 12:30PM on September 12, 2025 at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton. We invite all who knew and loved Charles to join us in honoring a truly remarkable life.