It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charlene Woods-Jones, who departed this life on August 30, 2026, in Orange, Texas. Born on December 17, 1941 to Charles Jenkins Woods and Marjorie Brown Woods in Orange, Texas.
She was a beloved wife and nurturing loving mother, she cherished her family above all. Charlene was the only child from this union. In her early years, her rearing was up to her maternal Grandmother, Susie Brown, her cousin Edna Mae Sweet, and her mother’s sister Josie Mae Brooks.
In her early years she attended Wallace School in Orange, Texas, and then Charlton Pollard School) in Beaumont, Texas. Charlene lived near 5th and John St. and frequently attended John Street Church of God in Christ (COGIC). Her grandmother taught her fierce principles that she later carried forward through her life and later passed on to her children and grandchildren.
Charlene was a reserved person who had a strong belief in God and in treating others right. She first married Julius Rachal Sr. from that union there were four children: Julius Rachal (Jackie), Johnny Rachal, Cynthia Ann Rachal (Todd), and Carolyn Marie Rachal.
Shortly thereafter the marriage dissolved. Sometime later, Charlene’s cousin, Mineola, introduced her to Alfred James Jones Sr… They were married on October 2, 1966. From that union there were four more children born: twins Ronald Jones (Rosalind), Donald Jones (Karl), Alfred James Jones Jr. (Sonja), and Bobby Jones (Felice) . Charlene was blessed to have 23 Grand children and 46 Great-Grand Children.
Later Alfred took her and her eight children to meet her mother, who had not seen Charlene since infancy. Shortly after Charlene’s birth her mother had relocated to San Francisco California. They continued their travel adventures to places such
as: France, Hawaii, Jamaica, Yellow Stone National Park, Las Vegas and many other areas.
Sometime around 1990, both Charlene and Alfred became active in Starlight COGIC. Both served on the Decorating Committee at the church. Charlene professed her faith in Christ. Although known to be quiet and reserved, she was able to speak publicly on several special occasions in the church. She took great care to study scripture. Charlene also meticulously served Pastor Lindsey with beverages when he preached in services, In later years, although not actively attending Starlight, they both supported the church financially and with gifts.
They successfully raised all eight children in Orange, Texas. Charlene passed away at home at the age of 84, om August 30, 2026, after a prolonged illness. Charlene was cared for primarily by her children.
She will be remembered because of her belief in her family and moreover by her love for her family.
Visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m. followed by funeral services at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Starlight Church of God in Christ located at 2800 Bob Hall Road, Orange, Texas 77630.
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