Charlotte Brandon

Charlotte “Charlie” Brandon, age 75, of Celina, Ohio, took her final flight into the arms of her Savior on June 26, 2025. She passed away peacefully at home from natural causes, surrounded by love.

Charlie was born on October 1, 1949, at Ft. George G. Meade, Maryland, shortly after her mother’s voyage from Italy to the United States. (She often joked that her tendency for motion sickness began while still in the womb aboard that ocean liner.) A proud “military brat,” Charlie grew up moving from place to place, shaped by both the discipline and unpredictability of military life. Despite the challenges of her early years, her steadfast faith in Jesus Christ remained a guiding light throughout her life.

In March 1968, after graduating from high school, Charlie enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, becoming one of the younger women to serve at the time. She rose to the rank of Sergeant, working in logistics and military police, and proudly served in the protection of two U.S. Presidents. After completing three years of active duty, she declined a re-enlistment offer and transitioned to civilian life, working as an insurance adjuster for Dairyland Insurance.

Later, Charlie moved to Indiana, her father's home state, and attended Earlham College, where she earned an associate degree in child psychology. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Terry Brandon, while they were both serving as assistant houseparents at a juvenile facility. The two were married on April 28, 1979, and shared a devoted and loving partnership. Terry survives in Celina.

In addition to her husband, Charlie is survived by her son, Dalan, and three beloved grandchildren. She also leaves behind twelve cherished siblings, a large extended family, and many dear friends. Her sweet chiweenie, RCA, will miss her dearly.

Ten years after leaving active duty, Charlie re-enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves while living in Oregon, continuing her commitment to service. She remained a fan of West Coast sports teams, a loyalty born from her years stationed in Southern California.

Charlie’s interests were as unique and vibrant as she was. She played in a women’s fast-pitch softball league, loved biking and camping, and had a deep fondness for cats and classic cars. She also collected whimsical keepsakes—frogs, elephants, shoes, eyeglasses, and mugs. In quiet moments, she found peace in sewing, reading, and watching mystery movies. Her love of music—especially Christian music and the Maranatha Praise Band—was a constant source of joy. She had strong opinions too—she was never a fan of televised sports, snow, or carnival rides.

Above all, Charlie was devoted to her family. She lovingly raised her own children and spent many years caring for the children of others. She continued to work in various fields until retiring early due to illness. A faithful member of Lighthouse Fellowship Church in Celina, she was deeply committed to helping others, volunteering with Serving Friends and Families, and cherishing memories such as working security alongside Terry at a Promise Keepers conference.

Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina, with Pastor Tony Richmond officiating. Friends and family may call from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., prior to the service.

Interment with full military honors will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Dayton National Cemetery in Dayton, Ohio.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and staff of Grand Lake Hospice in St. Marys for their months of compassionate care. Special thanks also to the teams at Otterbein Senior Life Skilled Nursing, Lutheran Hospital, and the many medical professionals who supported Charlie throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Charlie’s honor to Paralyzed Veterans of America (SupportVeterans.org) or the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation (ToysForTots.org).