Charles Devan Young

Charles Devan Young Obituary

LTC Charles DeVan Young, 89, (US Army Retired) of Harrisonburg, Va., went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at his home in Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community. He was born July 13, 1934 in Iuka, Mississippi and was the son of the late Morris R. and Vivian Young. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Sue Delle Young; son, Kelly Richard Young and brother Troy Young.Charles, a devoted husband, father, and grand-father (Gramps) showed his love for family his entire life. 

He lived in Springfield, VA for over 40 years, where he was active in the community and served in a variety of church roles. His priority however, was always God and his family. Charles never missed the opportunity to make a new friend. He never lost the ability to make those around him feel important, while sharing his knowledge, compassion and his faith, always believing strongly in the power of prayer. He truly was a man whose desire to uplift the lives of others should inspire us all to be better ourselves.

 Charles especially enjoyed sharing his life experiences with the younger generation. He gave freely of his time the last ten years at VMRC by volunteering considerable hours in the Main Street Store, on the Art and Dining Committees, and even driving many neighbors to doctor appointments and social events in his personal automobile. He enjoyed shooting pool in the game room and being a member of the military veterans’ club. Charles, earning his motorcycle license at the age of 81, became known as the sharp dressed guy with the shiny, white three-wheeled motorcycle, with which he joyfully provided leisurely pleasure rides to those residents with an adventurous spirit.Charles earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Southern Mississippi and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army, serving 23 years on active duty.

 He also earned his Master’s Degree in Nuclear Physics from The Steven’s Institute of Technology during that tour of duty. In addition to working on rocket telemetry, spending time with the 101st Airborne and serving in the Office of the Army Inspector General, he went on to work as a civilian for several government contractors affiliated with the United States Dept. of Energy. He was involved in many projects related to the country’s nuclear power programs and the remediation and cleanup of nuclear waste. 

The only thing more obvious and amazing than his intelligence was the size of his heart.Charles is survived by his sons, Charles S. Young (and wife Donna) and Daniel E. Young (and wife Debrah); grandchildren, Adam Young, Caitlin Heller, Jessica Young, Kathryn Young and Micah Young; great grand-children, Josh, Alexis and Quinn; many loving care-givers in Crestwood; and too many members of his extended family and friends to name.A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., in Strite Auditorium at the Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community in Harrisonburg. In lieu of flowers, his family has requested that contributions be made to Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community Foundation in Charles’ memory.

A Graveside Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 11:00 am at Harmony Cemetery, Amory, MS, 38821