Mr. Charles Milbre Defore, age 89, of Rocky Face, Georgia, peacefully slipped away to be in the presence of his Lord on Tuesday morning, March 31, 2026, at his home, with his loving wife by his side.

Charles was born on May 27, 1936, in Chatsworth, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his mother, Leona Crook Defore; his father and stepmother, James Riley and Lillian Henson Defore; his granddaughter, Mary Katherine Wingfield; his son-in-law, Leon Sackett; and several brothers and sisters.

A proud 1954 graduate of Murray County High, Charles went on to faithfully serve his country in the United States Navy. He was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent many years as an electrician with Dalton City Schools before retiring. Charles was a devoted member of North Whitfield Baptist Church and the American Legion Post #112.

Above all, Charles was a man who deeply loved his country, cherished his family, and remained steadfast in his faith. He was known for his strong work ethic, his unwavering patriotism, and his commitment to those he loved. His life was a reflection of integrity, devotion, and quiet strength.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Katherine Bryant Defore of the residence; daughters, Angela Sackett and Pam Chasteen and her husband Jackie; sons, James Randall Wingfield of Rocky Face, Georgia, and Randall Defore and his wife Deborah of Dawnville, Georgia; brother, Wibre Defore of Tunnel Hill, Georgia; grandchildren, Larry Robin and Jada Chasteen, Matthew Wade Smith, James Oswin and Lucinda Wingfield, Mindy and David Brown, Joseph Defore, Matthew Defore, Zachary Smith, Brooke and Jake Phillips, Katelan and Henson Gibbs, Kaleigh Little and Cole Little; great-grandchildren, Baylor Grace Gibbs, Ledger Gibbs, Morgan Gibbs, Hudson Phillips, Nova Wingfield, and Buford Wingfield. He is also survived by special friends, Pete and Yoland Reed of Tunnel Hill, Georgia, Reverend Clifford and Carol Chambers of Rocky Face, Georgia; a special niece, Sally Labrand of Dalton, Georgia; along with several other nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

A service to celebrate the life of Mr. Charles Milbre Defore was held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Ponders Melrose Chapel, with Reverend Clifford Chambers officiating. Military honors were provided by the American Legion Post #112 Honor Guard.

Inurnment services will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Dunagan Cemetery in Rocky Face, Georgia, with Reverend Clifford Chambers officiating. The family will receive friends at the cemetery thirty minutes prior to the service hour.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ponders Melrose Chapel of Dalton, Georgia.

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