Charles Wayne Warford

Charles Warford left this earthly life on Thursday February 16, 2023. He was born October 19, 1935 in the Abilene Hendrick Hospital to Audi Preston (Shorty) Warford and Margie William Sherrell Warford and brought home to Lawn to his brother Audie Gerald. Charles attended and graduated from the Lawn public schools.

Charles met Patsy Estelle Rountree in high school and they married in Lawn August 1955. Both Patsy and Charles attended Howard Payne University-Brownwood and she graduated in 1957. They then moved to Abilene where Jeffory Loy was born on Christmas Day 1957. Charles worked at Abilene State School while continuing his education at McMurry University. Patti Jo was born in March of his final semester there 1961. Charles began his public school career and learning experiences by teaching and coaching eighth grade in Merkel Schools from 1961 through 1966.

He returned to Abilene State School to lead the Physical Education Project that provided many wonderful services to the residents with the help of local college students. He was also instrumental in introducing Special Olympics to Texas in 1968.

Charles moved his family to Amarillo in 1970 and then to Austin in 1971. He directed the Education Programs at the Austin State School until 1981. At this time, he returned to the public school classroom and spent the next 22 years learning with the fifth graders in Leander ISD. His annual Pioneer Recognition Days activities and weekly breakfast biscuits linger in the memories of many students and peers after his retirement in 2002.

Charles greatly loved the outdoors, especially camping at Big Bend and boating on Lake Travis. Woodcarving, caring for Patsy and entertaining grandchildren filled his remaining days until she passed away in 2013.

He returned to his farming roots in Lawn, Texas when he bought the home that he and his father had built in much younger years. He strengthened old friendships, supported the Lawn Longhorn Reunion each summer and taught many loved ones how to drive a tractor.

Charles is survived by his son Jeff, daughter-in-law Cindy and his grandchildren Justin, Kristin and Anthony of Florida. His daughter Patti, son-in-law Jayson Cole and grandchildren Audrey, Benjamin, Hannah, Natalie (Nat), William and Sophia (Sunny). In addition, his tractor driving pride and joy great grandson Preston. His niece Janice Ramos and grandniece Carly DeLara of New Mexico. In-laws Coleta Reed, Ann Hearn, Kathy and Tommy Taylor and numerous beloved nieces and nephews on both the Warford and Rountree sides of the families.

In lieu of a funeral, Charles wanted to thank all of the many persons he has been associated with in his life. For the dedication, friendship and memories they have provided. He always thought that he got more credit than he deserved as he felt those living and working alongside him made his life very rewarding.

There will be a family and close friend visitation at Fry-Smith Funeral in Tuscola on Saturday March 4 from 5:00-7:00 pm and a graveside service at McBee Cemetery in Ovalo on Sunday March 5 at 1:00pm

Please make any memorials to a favorite charity. His were "On the Way Home Food Bank" and "Texas Special Olympics".