Charles W. Paxton

On March 16, 2026, at the age of 83, Charles W. Paxton was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, who he faithfully served for 55 years. Born in Dayton, Ohio, Charlie was raised in a nurturing Christian home, where he accepted Christ as his personal Savior at the age of seven. His early years at Christian Tabernacle laid the spiritual foundation that would guide him throughout his life.

Charlie's calling to ministry became evident during his high school years, as both he and those around him recognized his potential to serve God in a full-time capacity. This commitment culminated in his decision at the age of 17 to dedicate his life to Christian service. In September 1961, he began his transformative journey at Taylor University, where he distinguished himself as a leader and sought to empower others through his faith. He served as a class officer, a dorm counselor, a member of the Youth Conference Committee, an orientation leader, and chairman of the President's student committee for relocation. He also traveled as the speaker for Gospel team from Taylor.

After graduation, Charlie devoted his early years to Youth for Christ in Findlay, Ohio, where he directed Campus Life clubs across nine area schools. There he met Cathy Gardner, a dedicated teacher, and they were married on November 19, 1966, beginning a beautiful partnership rooted in faith.

In 1967, Charlie accepted the role of Associate Director for Voice of Christian Youth in Tacoma, Washington. However, following a calling for further education, Charlie and Cathy moved to Wilmore, Kentucky, where he attended Asbury Theological Seminary. Despite the demands of pastoral life and education, Charlie accepted the pastorate of Shiloh Community Church in Franklin, Indiana, where he witnessed remarkable growth in both membership and spirit. In 1979, Charlie became aware of the M.A.B.S. degree program at Dallas Theological Seminary. Because he dreamed of studying there, Charlie applied and finished the program at Dallas in 1985.

Throughout his ministry, Charlie's unwavering commitment to his congregations was evident. From his tenure at Trinity Evangelical Church to his 35 years of service at Camby Community Church, Charlie touched countless lives with his solid Bible teaching and consistent availabilty. He also contributed significantly as a chaplain for the Indiana State Police and the Mooresville Police Department.

A devoted husband to Cathern Marie (Gardner) Paxton and a loving father to Sara Elizabeth (Lance) Brookshire and Abby Joy (Eli Anderson) Raikes, Charlie enjoyed being "Chappy" to his grandchildren, Chloe, Justin, Paxton, Ian, and Owen. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Janis Paxton, a niece Lin Randolph, nephews Adam and Brian (Nicki) Paxton, and great-nieces, Grace (Tanner), Malia, and Addie.

Charlie was preceded in death by both of his parents, Walter E. and Lucille H. (Hatcher) Paxton and brother, Daniel Paxton.

In remembrance of Charlie's remarkable life, family and friends may show thier love and support from 3 to 8 pm on Friday, March 20 and from 9:30 to 10:30 am on Saturday, March 21 at Camby Community Church, 8604 Camby Rd, Camby, IN 46113. A celebration of life service will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, March 21 at the church. Charlie will be laid to rest during a private graveside service at Fairfield Friends Cemetery in Camby.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Charlie's memory to Camby Community Church or the Taylor University Taylor Fund.

To send a condolence to the family or to share a story about Charlie, please visit: www.jonesfamilymortuary.com