Edwin Michael Charles was born on September 15th, 1944 to Clifford and Marie Charles at their home in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago. He is the third of four children. He leaves behind three children, Michael Charles, Niki Charles, and Camille Charles-Blue (Jonathan Blue); three grandchildren Livia Blue, Jonathan E. Blue Jr., and Skylar Charles; two siblings Winston Charles and Charmaine Thomas; several cousins, nephews, and many loved ones. He is preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Averil Charles.

Edwin showed an early interest in sports. He was a member of the All Stars Sports Club in Couva, where he played table tennis, soccer, and cricket. He was recognized for his talent and love for these sports when he came to the United States on September 8th, 1967 to attend Howard University in Washington, D.C. where he was on the university's cricket team, as well as captain of the soccer team. He later enrolled at the University of the District of Columbia, where he was a Top Freshman and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration.

Edwin's career paths included taxi driver, IBM equipment technician, and US Postal Service worker. His departure from the postal service led him to his final role as a substitute teacher. Although a substitute, for nearly a year, he worked in an ESE classroom at Shingle Creek Elementary School. There he created close bonds with students and faculty, even being included in the class yearbook photo. After the conclusion of his assignment, he would continue to volunteer time in the classroom, occasionally stopping for visits and always with their favorite treats.

Edwin was a lover of calypso and steelpan music. Prior to leaving Trinidad, he was a member and masquerader with the Starlift Steel Orchestra. Years later his passion for playing music resurfaced with the Orlando Power Stars, playing the tenor bass. Over the years, he also volunteered many hours meticulously helping with design and creation of Caribbean carnival costumes. His other hobbies included reading, puzzles, card games, and quiet time alone admiring nature. He also enjoyed various genres of music and movies, often sharing his favorite CDs and DVDs with others. More than anything, Edwin loved to express his delight relating to his children's and grandchildren's talents and accomplishments.

Edwin was also very strong in his faith. He enjoyed visits to The Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando. After relocating to the Clermont area he would routinely attend mass at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Eventually, he would no longer be able to attend mass as often as he would like, but would continue to devote time each day to prayer and reflection.

In 1999, Edwin received his first cancer diagnosis and underwent a series of treatments including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy resulting in years of remission. He received a second diagnosis in 2009 followed by another in 2019, but throughout his journey, he remained steadfast. Edwin did not allow his diagnosis to hold him back from enjoying life. His family and friends never heard him say "why me?" or display moments of despair, instead, he remained upbeat with a positive outlook. After a long and heroic battle, in 2024, he was placed on home hospice, where he spent the remainder of his journey surrounded with family and loved ones until transitioning peacefully in his sleep. Throughout his life, he was resilient and exhibited unwavering strength.

Edwin, known to many as "Charlo," will be remembered as a loving father, proud grandfather, fun uncle, devoted friend, and joyful soul.

Please join us at Becker Funeral Home from 10:30 am - 11:30 am to pay respects to Edwin Charles.

806 W. Minneola Avenue Clermont, FL 34711

Service will be held at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church at 12:00 pm.

720 12th Street

Clermont, FL 34711

Repast to follow at College Park Neighborhood Center

2393 Elizabeth Avenue

Orlando, FL 32804

Your presence will be a comforting reminder of the love and memories we shared. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to MD Anderson Cancer Center. https://giving.baptistjax.com/give/327108/#!/donation/checkout