In Loving Memory

Photo of Lillian “Charlene” teal

Lillian “Charlene” teal

December 26, 1941 — September 24, 2024

On September 24, 2024, the world lost a cherished soul, Lillian “Charlene” Teal, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love and warmth of her family. Born on December 26, 1941, in Blountsville, Alabama, Charlene was the beloved daughter of John Carl McWhorter Sr. and Audrey McWhorter. Her life was a tapestry woven with love, resilience, and selfless devotion to her family and community. Charlene was a devoted wife to her late husband, Kenneth Teal, whom she married in 1961. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and companionship, spanning over six decades until Kenneth’s passing in 2023. Together, they built a life filled with shared dreams and cherished memories, raising a family imbued with their values of love, honesty, and hard work. Preceded in death by her parents, her husband Kenneth teal. sister Carolyn Hill, and most heartbreakingly, her daughter Sharon Teal Askew, Charlene faced her losses with remarkable strength. Sharon, who shared so much in common with her mother, passed away in 2021, a loss that deeply affected Charlene. Yet, she continued to embody the love and kindness that Sharon carried forward. Charlene was the proud mother too Carlene Teal Williamson and Sharon Teal Askew grandmother to seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored beyond measure. Known affectionately as "Nanny," she was the heart of her family, always ready with a warm smile, loving words, and a guiding hand. Her grandsons, Lewis Askew and T.J. Askew, visited her from birth on sometimes weeks at times and were particularly close to her, learning from her how to love deeply and live honestly. Charlene cherished her moments with Lewis, especially their heartfelt conversations about life and faith, often referring to him as her "little sleeping buddy." Her life was marked by hard work and dedication, attributes that defined her career until a fall left her disabled. It was then that Sharon stepped in as a devoted caretaker for both Charlene and Kenneth, demonstrating the selfless love and compassion that Charlene herself had instilled in her. Following Sharon’s tragic passing, Charlene was blessed with the care of dedicated professionals who continued to support her with kindness and respect. Charlene’s passions were many and varied. A proud member of Rosa Methodist Church, she found joy in her faith and community. She adored spending time outdoors, lovingly tending to her flower beds and garden, which were testimonials to her nurturing spirit. Her culinary skills were unmatched, with her homemade vegetable soup and biscuits and gravy often bringing comfort and delight to her family. Charlene was also an avid bargain hunter, finding joy in the simple pleasure of thrift store treasures. Her love for her pets, especially her loyal cocker spaniel Sam and toy poodle Rusty, reflected her boundless capacity for love. Charlene’s legacy is one of love, honesty, and kindness. She touched countless lives with her generosity and warmth, always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand. Her family finds comfort in the values she imparted, especially the importance of faith, love, and integrity. In honoring Charlene’s memory, the family kindly requests donations be made to Saint Jude’s Research, reflecting her spirit of giving and her wish to help others. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to those who cared for Charlene, particularly after Sharon’s passing. Your kindness and dedication brought immense comfort to Charlene and her family. The family holds a special place in their hearts for Sharon, whose unwavering love and care were a testament to her mother’s legacy. Charlene’s life was a radiant example of love, faith, and resilience. Her spirit will forever guide her family, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved husband, daughter, and cherished family members who have gone before her. It gives us peace to know she is back with Sharon and her loved ones and most importantly Jesus Christ her savior