Charles Edward Meredith, Jr. "Cookie"

Charles Edward Meredith, Jr., "Cookie" a treasured member of the Dayton community, passed away on May 27, 2025, at the age of 66. Born on June 28, 1958, in Dayton, he lived his life with a spirit of hard work and dedication, earning respect through his various careers as a contractor, demolition expert, truck driver, and painter. His commitment to his work was matched only by his sense of humor—known for his funny and sarcastic personality, he brought joy and laughter wherever he went.

A proud veteran, Charles served in the U.S. Marine Corps, demonstrating a level of commitment that extended beyond his military service into his daily life. Charles was devoted to giving back to his community, volunteering for Meals on Wheels where he delivered food to those in need, embodying the goodness and compassion he held dear. A man of faith, he found comfort and purpose in his belief, often engaging with the scripture, particularly enjoying the book of Revelations. He also had a unique interest in ghost hunting, sharing tales of his adventures with those around him.

Charles’ legacy is most prominently carried on by his loving family. He is survived by his fiancée, Donna Dillavou, and his daughter, Marisa (Mike) Swort. In addition to his immediate family, he embraced his role as a stepfather to Heather Wenrick, Sierra (Dustin) Caldwell, and Christian (Nomi) Mackey. He took great pride in being a grandfather to Neveah, Lilly, Ezekiel, and Isaiah, and shared a special bond with his honorary grandchildren, Hayley Howard, Hunter Shifflet, Hope Shifflet, and Elijah Swort.

Charles is also survived by his siblings, Marilyn Ledford, Lee Ledford, Deborah Meredith, and Mary Koors, as well as numerous nieces and nephews including Jennifer Davis, Christopher Grooms, Aaron Grooms, Justin Grooms, Jeremy Plaster, and Phillip Plaster. His friendship with Stanley Caldwell was one of great significance in his life, highlighting the bonds he forged with those around him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Edward Meredith, Sr., his mother, Margaret Alice Meredith, and cousin Norene. He also mourned the loss of close friends Lonnie Wilkie and Joe Prizer, all of whom left a lasting impact on his journey.

Charles Edward Meredith, Jr., "Cookie" will be remembered not just for his industrious nature but for the warmth he shared with others. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, dedication, and love that will continue to resonate within the hearts of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 11am-12pm at Wesleyan Evangelistic Church, 2104 Revere Ave, Dayton, OH 45420. The service will follow at 12pm. Charles will be laid to rest with military honors at Dayton National Cemetery at 2pm.