Charles Wilson, Esteemed Living Legend of Alexandria, Dies at 83

Alexandria, VA – Charles Wilson, a distinguished U.S. Air Force veteran, devoted community leader, and cherished advocate for Alexandria’s youth, passed away on August 12, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born in Chicago in 1941, Wilson’s early life was shaped by both challenge and opportunity. He was one of only two minority students admitted to an elite Jewish high school—a turning point that revealed the breadth of his potential. “Being accepted to that school … helped me see what I might be capable of achieving,” he once reflected.

Wilson attended Southern Illinois University, completing ROTC and commissioning into the U.S. Air Force in 1964. He served with the 82nd Fighter Squadron and the 315th Air Commando Wing during the Vietnam War, later taking on roles as executive director of the Department of Defense executive leadership program at the Pentagon and as a military liaison to the Republic of China. After nearly a quarter-century of service, he retired as a lieutenant colonel in 1988.

Following his military career, Wilson moved to Alexandria in 1983 and quickly immersed himself in civic life. He became a financial planner, taught as an adjunct professor, and consulted for municipalities. In 2003, he was elected to the Alexandria City School Board, serving nearly a decade, including as vice chair. Encouraged by colleague Sheryl Gorsuch, he also became active with the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI), helping parents become more effective advocates for their children.

Wilson joined the Concerned Citizens Network of Alexandria (CCNA) in 2009, serving as treasurer and championing programs to strengthen youth and families. “I know the importance of education and see firsthand the difference CCNA has made in the lives of young people and their families,” he said. He was also deeply involved in the Omega Psi Phi fraternity’s Alexandria chapter, supporting community service initiatives from coat drives to Miracle League baseball games.

His accomplishments reached beyond Alexandria. He was honored in Marquis Who’s Who for Excellence in Community Service, featured in Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in Finance and Business, and Who’s Who in the World. He also held an MBA from Webster University and once launched a vending machine business in San Antonio—patenting the microwave oven carousel along the way.

Wilson credited his dedication to service to mentors like Ferdinand Day and Lynnwood Campbell. “They said I was blessed and that I needed to give back to the community. So I jumped in where I thought I could make a difference,” he said.

In 2023, he was honored as a Living Legend of Alexandria—an accolade he embraced with unmatched joy. “While I know all of our Legends are honored by their selection, I don’t believe I have seen anyone as excited and enthusiastic to be named a Living Legend as Charles. It was an honor he truly treasured,” said Living Legends past president Jeanne Theismann this morning, reflecting on his legacy after learning of his passing.

A public memorial service will be held in Alexandria; details will be announced.