Rev. David "Coach DC" H. Charles

David Charles, 62, of Norfolk, Virginia, peacefully transitioned on August 12,2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on December 14, 1962, David lived a purpose driven life rooted in faith, service, and family.  David was educated in Norfolk Public Schools and graduated from Lake Taylor High School.  He also attended Norfolk State University before he proudly served in the United States Army and dedicated 26 years of hard work as a Signal Maintainer for Norfolk Southern Railroad.  A beloved figure in the Norfolk community, David was more than a coach, he was a mentor, a father figure, and a role model to many. He coached basketball, football and baseball for the Bowling Park Warriors and the Tidewater Park Downtown Eagles and was known for showing up not just with heart, but with wheel driving his big blue bus aka “Blue Cheese” to make sure players made it to and from practices and games. Before every game, he would lead his team in a powerful prayer:
“Repeat after me”
“I can depend...on God...”
“I can depend...on God...”
“Through the storm...through the rain...”
“Through the hurt...through the pain...”
“I can depend...on God...”
“In Jesus’ name we pray...Amen...Amen...Amen...Amen...”
“Hard work on 3...1,2,3: HARD WORK”

David was an Associate Minister at Second Calvary Baptist Church, having received his license to preach on July 23, 1989, under the leadership of Dr. Geoffrey V. Guns, Senior Pastor. He served on the Missions Ministry where he answered the call to serve abroad including a mission trip to Kenya. He was also active in the Media Ministry and the Sewing Ministry. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Robin Charles; his three children David Charles, Danyelle Charles and Devin Charles; his granddaughter: A’mari Charles; three sisters: Darlene Banks, Tasha Charles and Dionne Charles; two aunts Cynthia Gay and Cheryl Smith; one uncle; Denvert Boney; Father and Mother in law: Robert and Dolly Thornton; Brother-in-law Pastor,
Dr. Michael Thornton and Sister-in-law Donna Thornton. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends also lovingly remembers him.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Andrella and David Charles, his grandparents Denvert H. Boney & Cora A. Boney, Aunt Elva Wood, Uncle Calvin Boney, his precious granddaughter Baby Drew and other friends and family. David Charles leaves behind a powerful legacy of service, compassion, leadership, and faith. His impact will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

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