The spitting image of his father, Mervyn grew up with a quick wit…and temper. Developing his father’s sense of style, Mervyn knew he was the “sharpest” dude on the block. He also inherited his father’s intelligence and developed his mother’s love of reading. He spent many pleasurable hours reading all kinds of literature. From William Faulkner and James Joyce, to Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, and Walter Mosley, to Donald Goines and Iceburg Slim, Mervyn was able to discuss these author’s works as well as any professor from an Ivy League university.

Although Charles stumbled through life for many years, he turned his life around in the mid 80’s and settled in Binghamton, where he rediscovered his love of reading, playing chess, and bingo. A jack-of-all-trades, Charles supported himself working various jobs as a handyman.

Charles had over 68 years of relatively good health, and although diagnosed with liver cancer nearly six months ago, he fought to live his life on his own terms.

Charles is survived by his sisters Sylvia and Elaine Williams of the Bronx, and cousins Thomas and Donald Hall of Syracuse, Fred Way III of Brooklyn, and Norman Belcher of Binghamton. Other survivors include nieces Cheryl Ragland of the Bronx and Jeanine Weeks of Hopemills, NC; Nephew-in-law Wayne Weeks; grandnieces Taylor and Ryan Weeks; and a host of cousins and family friends.

Charles is predeceased by his elder sister, Geraldine Ragland.

Friends and family may call Friday (December 9, 2005) from 9:00 a.m. until time of 11:00 a.m. Funeral Service at the Herson Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery with full Military Honors. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

We love you, Charles…Mervyn…Uncle Mervyn. Rest in peace, Your loving family.