Charles Warren Waters

We announce the passing of Charles "Warren" Waters, born on October 8, 1960, in Cordele, Crisp County, Georgia. He departed this world on October 11, 2016, while receiving care at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Albany, Georgia, at the age of 56. Warren was the son of Edwin Jackson Waters and Dorothy Frances Waters, who welcomed him into the world with open arms and hearts. Throughout his life, he remained The Baby. Little Granny, his grandmother, also doted on him, as he grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. Though Warren faced challenges, he carved out his own path in life, working various hard labor jobs that showcased his resilience and tenacity. He was a carpenter in training, never striving to perfect his craft. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through as he found success as an independent pharmaceutical cultivator, a testament to his resourcefulness and determination. Warren was a man of varied interests, known for his love of fishing and a passion for the great outdoors. He tended his garden with care, nurturing his plants and ensuring their soil was always moist. His love for music was palpable, often filling the air with the electrifying sounds of hard rock and roll. His sense of humor, although sometimes misunderstood, brought smiles to those who took the time to see beyond his gruff exterior. He was an avid reader, surprising many with his love for books that required imagination and thought, as they lacked pictures. His appreciation for literature was one of the many layers of his complex personality. Warren was predeceased by many dear family members, including his sister Marie Kitchens, mother Dorothy Waters, grandmothers Rosa Southern and Mary Etta Waters, nephew Zack Robinson, sister-in-law Patsy Waters, step grandfather Charles Southern, father Ed Waters, and grandfathers George Calhoun and Charlie Waters. Their memories couldn't have lasted long given Warren's favorite pass time. He leaves behind a family who will never forget him: his beloved son's mother, Mary Waters, and his son, Charlie Waters. He is survived by two sisters, Jackie Waters (Jesus) and Joan Daniels (Pete), and his brother, Danny Waters (Cheryl). His brother-in-law, William Kitchens, and numerous nieces and nephews—Katrina Guined, Tessa Henry (Philip), Lisa Young, Leslie Thompson (Tiff), Leighanne Faircloth, Tracey Johnson (Matt), Susanne Derington (Chris), Julie Ott (Joe), Ashley Barnes, and Daniel Waters—along with several great nieces, nephews, and cousins, will continue to hold Warren in their talks of family members. In his community, Warren was known for his involvement with Sumter County Lockup, where he made connections and left his mark. Though described as a lifelong habitual violator, those who took the time to understand him knew he had a heart that cared deeply for those he held close, and mainly himself. A private funeral ceremony will be held in honor of Warren's life, respecting the family's wishes for privacy during this time. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, organizations that reflect a journey of healing and hope. Charles Warren Waters will be remembered for the many facets of his life, from his love of nature and music to his unique sense of humor. While he may have scared small children and sometimes rubbed his neighbors the wrong way, he was a man who lived life on his own terms and left an indelible mark on those who took the time to truly know him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love of those who have gone before him and the enduring love of those he leaves behind.