Charles Salters

Charles Edward Salters was born on November 1, 1952, in New Haven, Connecticut, to Theodore Roosevelt Salters, Sr. and Jimmie Mae Salters. From the very beginning, his charm and personality were undeniable. The third of seven children, Charles earned the affectionate nickname “Curious George” and was just as lovingly known as the family’s tattletale. If he knew something, you could be sure everyone else would too. His curiosity, humor, and lively spirit were constant throughout his life. Beyond his deep love for family, Charles had four passions that defined him throughout his life: music, cars, dancing, and singing. These loves were not just hobbies, but extensions of his spirit, passions that shaped his days and brought joy to those around him. While in high school, Charles met the love of his life, Olenia Bell. Their connection was instant, and from that moment on, they were inseparable. Together, they welcomed two beautiful daughters and built a bond rooted in love, loyalty, and devotion. Their romance was steadfast and enduring, a true testament to a love that spanned a lifetime. Charles was educated in the New Haven Public School system and graduated from James Hillhouse High School in 1970. He later attended the University of Connecticut for a time before beginning a career that would make him a familiar and beloved face in his community. For more than 35 years, Charles was a fixture on Whalley Avenue as the manager of the Exxon gas station. Whether he was listening to soulful R&B, sharing a joke, offering a helping hand, or simply brightening someone’s day with his warm smile, Charles made that corner of New Haven feel like home. Over the years, Charles collected a handful of nicknames. To some, he was known as “Spider.” To his nieces and nephews, he was lovingly called “Uncle Chuck.” And to a few others, he was simply “Charlie.” Each name reflected a different facet of his personality, yet all spoke to the same genuine soul. Whether he was flashing that unforgettable smile, charming everyone in the room, quietly slipping a few dollars to a niece or nephew, or singing his way through a tense moment, Charles showed up as his full, authentic self. He never pretended to be anything other than who he was, warm, genuine, and full of heart. He will be remembered not only for his signature hat and sunglasses, but for the way he greeted people with his entire spirit. For the playful nicknames he gave to those he loved. For the way he called those closest to him ‘baby’. For his uncanny ability to make you feel like the most important person in his world. And the simple gesture of lifting his fist and winking, a quiet but powerful reminder that he always had your back. After a long illness, Charles Edward Salters passed away on January 2, 2026. He was surrounded by two of his passions, his family and his music. Charles is preceded in death by his parents: Theordore Roosevelt Salters, Sr. and Jimmie Mae Salters; his eldest sister Thelma Earline Bush; his brothers Theodore Roosevelt Salters, Jr., and Kevin Salters; his daughter Laponja Bell; and his lifelong love Olenia Bell. He leaves to cherish his memor & legacy, his three sisters: Mary Ann Moran of McDonough, GA., Henrietta Jennings of Savannah, GA, and Elaine Harris (Kevin) of Hampton, GA.; one brother Anthony Bailey (Thando) of McDonough, GA His four children: Anthony Douglas Sr. (Nicole) of Mount Laural Township New Jersey; Charzette Wearing (Gregory); Shemica Foreman; and Charlese Bell, all of New Haven, CT.; one goddaughter Lashanda Smith his twelve grandchildren Anthony Douglas, Jr. (Maxine), Morgan Douglas, Evan Douglas, Colin Douglas, Keith Spruill, Charles Wearing, Chelsea Wearing, Tarvares Llyod Jr, Taija Lloyd, Cherish Bell and Aleix & Alex’zae Tyson; his ten great grandchildren a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. It is said that ‘Grief is the echo of love; proof that what you shared was real’. May we find comfort in knowing each tear of our grief is rooted in our love.

Charles Salters

November 1, 1952 - January 2, 2026