Charlotte Darlene DeForest

Charlotte Darlene DeForest, a beacon of love and warmth, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, in the comfort of her home in Piedmont, Alabama, cradled in the loving arms of her devoted husband of 26 years, Junior Dee DeForest after her courageous battle with colon cancer. Born on July 9, 1970, in Gadsden, Alabama, Charlotte was the cherished daughter of George Billy and Bobbie (Tumlin) Connell. Charlotte's life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and devotion. Her quick wit and radiant smile could light up any room, and her unwavering faith in her Lord and Savior was a testament to her enduring spirit and generous heart. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel like family, a quality that endeared her to all who knew her. A woman of many passions, Charlotte found joy in crafting, camping, and traveling after retiring from the nursing field where she work as a LPN after graduating from Gadsden State. Her world-class Silkie chickens were a source of pride and delight, as were her three special needs cats, Zoe, Dora, and Queenie, whom she cared for with boundless love while feeding any stray animal that made its way to the farm. Charlotte's family was her greatest treasure. She is survived by her beloved husband, Junior Dee DeForest, and her children Steven Blake & (Maddie) Connell, Logan Brett and Melanie Connell, and Jake and Stephanie (Connell) King. Her grandchildren — Phoenix, Hazel, Ariana, Titus, Ellie Kate, Lincoln Connell, Slade, and Riggins King — were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her dear siblings, Thomas Michael (brother-in-law) and Carolyn (Connell) Holcomb, her brother Billy Connell and Tammy Sue Robinson (Sister-in-law) Her nieces, Melanie (Richard) Stringer, Caitlin (Robbie) Clayson and Brittney (Robinson) Beard, Brooke Connell and Nephew, Brian Robinson along with her special friend Judy Lee and her cousins, whom she lovingly called her bonus sisters, Kim Rhodes Horton, Laurie (Stevens) Hamacher, will carry forward her legacy of love and kindness. A service to celebrate Charlotte's life will be held on Saturday, September 12th, 2026 at 12:00 PM (Noon) at College Heights Baptist Church, located at 411 Rabbittown Rd, Glencoe, AL 35905 Charlotte's legacy of love, faith, and kindness will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and her spirit will continue to inspire all those who knew her.