Charles Edward Dillehay, born at home in Columbia, Tennessee, on July 11, 1940, took his last flight on June 4, 2026. A man of deep faith, unwavering patriotism, and devotion to family, Charles lived a life marked by service, hard work, and a genuine love for others, and was awarded the Deacon Amertis Award for 34 years. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, the late J.C. (James Charles) Dillehay and Annie Louise (Reed) Dillehay; and by his brothers, Jim Dillehay and Billy Dillehay.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Lee (Parham, Jewell) Dillehay; daughter Amanda Jewell (Chris) Gregory of Hartsville, Tennessee; Ann (Scott) Dillehay Sikes, mother of his children; son Chuck (Kim) Dillehay of Marietta, Georgia; and daughter Susan (Mike) Vanous of Winfield, Missouri. He was a proud grandfather to Jay Gregory, Jonah Dillehay, Caleb Dillehay, Emmi Dillehay, Noah Vanous, and Matthew Vanous.

He is also survived by his brothers, Joe Dillehay of North Carolina and Dale (Pam) Dillehay of Columbia, Tennessee; sisters Barbara (Rushion) Garvin of Chapel Hill, Tennessee, and Myrtle (Jay) Dodson of Thompson Station, Tennessee; along with several nieces and nephews. Charles also held a special place in his heart for Carrington and Braxton Bible, Hallie Henderson, Hayden Kate and Hayes Henderson, and Carter and Lydia Beck.

A 1958 graduate of Central High School, Charles joined the United States Navy at age 17 and proudly served aboard the USS Enterprise, the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. His naval service included participation during historic events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and Mediterranean deployments. Following his military career, he dedicated many years to the Federal Aviation Administration as an air traffic controller and supervisor, earning Controller of the Year honors and numerous special achievement awards.

Charles' faith was the foundation of his life. Saved as a young man and later baptized at Highland Park Baptist Church, he faithfully served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, choir member, church bus driver, and volunteer. He and Lee also served with Samaritan's Purse through Operation Christmas Child. He was a member of the Lions Club, American Legion Post 19, and the USS Enterprise Association.

Those who knew Charles will remember his quick wit, generous spirit, steadfast faith, and love for family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

The family will receive friends at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia on Saturday, June 6, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life service will be held at the funeral home on Sunday, June 7, at 1:00 p.m., with Rev. Jason Beck and Rev. Wilson Henderson officiating. Music will be provided by Wilson and Charline Henderson. Interment will follow at Polk Memorial Gardens.

Honorary pallbearers will be the Adult Men's Sunday School Class of Highland Park Baptist Church, Joe Bishop, Bobby Prince, Don Nelson, Buddy Kennedy, Ron Perry, Ross Ayers, Anthony Muston, Andy Harvey, Billy Freeman, Garry Nixon, Mike Burns, and the deacons of Highland Park Baptist Church.

Active pallbearers will be Jay Gregory, Jonah Dillehay, Caleb Dillehay, Noah Vanous, Matthew Vanous, Braxton Bible, Chris Gregory, Danny Collins (SCATS), and Ned Watson (FAA).

American Legion Post 19 will be rendering Military Honors at Polk Memorial Gardens. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Highland Park Baptist, where he was a longtime member 

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family at williamsfh.com.