Charles J. “Charlie” VanHooser, 80 of Taylorville, passed away surrounded by his family, on Friday, July 12, 2024, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.  He was born on May 20, 1944, the son of William Norton and Edith Lorraine (Spain) VanHooser.  He married Patricia L. Martin on July 24, 1964, in Hannibal, Missouri.  Charlie proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  Following his time in the service, he returned to work for 34 years as a conductor/brakeman for the Wabash and Norfolk Southern Railroad.  Charlie was an active member of Grace Baptist Church in Taylorville where he took part in many areas of church ministry included serving as a deacon and singing praises to the Lord.  He never met a stranger and loved visiting with friends and family.  In his free time, he enjoyed working in the yard and will be remembered for his generosity, and as an unofficial Christian County historian for his extensive knowledge of the county residents. 

He is survived by his wife: Patricia VanHooser of Taylorville; children: Vonda K. (Steve) Laffey of Athens, Shauntay (Chris) Conrad of Taylorville, and Megan R. (Jim) McCann of Harvel; grandson: Adam T. (Michele) Carswell of Prattville, Alabama; sister: Rhea Sue Beaird of Taylorville; brother-in-law: Clarence Eugene McArdle; sister-in-law: Rosetta VanHooser; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The funeral service for Charlie will be held at 10:00a.m. on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at Grace Baptist Church in Taylorville with Pastor Gerald McPhillips officiating.  A visitation will take place from 4 until 7p.m. on Tuesday at the church.  A burial, with military graveside rites, will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery following the funeral.  Memorials may be made to Grace Baptist Church or the Taylorville Fire Department.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.