Charlotte Blakes

Charlotte Blakes, age 89, transitioned peacefully in her home on Sunday, April 19, 2020. She was born on August 28, 1930, near Bessemer, Alabama, to Charlie and Daisy Madison. In the late 1930’s, the Madison family moved to West Virginia, at the expense of Charlotte’s mom’s oldest sister and matriarch, Adeline Grant. Thus began the history of close-family ties. Charlotte grew up in Beckley, West Virginia and graduated from Stratton High School, an all-black school with a history that dates back to 1907. Like so many other young blacks, Charlotte and her brother, Aaron, left the South for a better life. They joined their oldest sister, Mary Louise Smith, in New York City. It was there that she first married. Although the marriage ended in divorce, her oldest son, Kenneth R. Washington, was born of that marriage. Charlotte was then introduced to the love of her life, William Thomas Blakes, by her youngest brother, the late Charlie Madison, Jr. Their relationship and subsequent marriage lasted for sixty years, until his death on April 17, 2014. Their marriage produced one child, the late Stephen T. Blakes, who transitioned on December 1, 2003. Charlotte was affectionately referred to as “The Diva” by many. She loved getting dressed for events - loved all the bling - the dangling, feminine earrings - the alluring smell of fragrance. She loved an afternoon at the casino, with the bells ringing, whether she won or lost. Charlotte will be missed most on holidays when authentic soul food, prepared without recipes, is the featured food. Charlotte will be in our hearts forever. Charlotte was preceded in death by her son , Stephen T. Blakes; her husband, William T. Blakes; and brothers, Aaron Madison and Charlie Madison, Jr. Charlotte is survived by her devoted son, Kenneth R. Washington; daughter-in-law, Emi Washington; grandsons, Kevin T. Washington and Anthony R. Washington; great grandchildren, Michaela, Ariel, Jackson and Olivia Washington; sisters, Mary Louise Smith and Rosetta W. Madison; goddaughter, JoAnn Powers, and cherished friends, Ethel Daniels and Evelyn Kelley. She also leaves to mourn her loss, numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, friends and her Solid Rock Church family.

Charlotte Blakes

August 28, 1930 - April 19, 2020