Jimi Shawn Charles, 51, of Big Stone Gap, Virginia gained his precious wings Sunday, August 4, 2024 at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Lexington Medical with his loving high school sweetheart and soulmate, Elaine McClanadhan Looney, holding his hand.

Loved ones who will be giving his wings to him are his wonderful pro boxer grandpa, Doug Hale, who he spent many summers at the Gorge, his aunt, Belinda, who loved and cared for him as her own child.

He will be missed by many but a special little friend and buddy Lil' Man (Miles Vincent of Lexington, NC). Jimi and Lil' Man shared a very special bond from the day he was born. Lil Man will miss him deeply but has wonderful and crazy memories to carry him as he grows.

Family who also have great memories to carry them through these tough times are his mom, Marlene Hale Charles of Corburn, VA who spoiled him rotten; his father, Jack Charles of Big Rock, VA; two brothers, Levi Charles of Coeburn, VA and Al (Christine McConnell) Charles of Big Rock, VA; a son, Cody Shawn and wife Courtney Charles of Big Rock, VA; three wonderful grandchildren who he was so very proud of: Bryson, Caden and Aria; two special nieces, Chloe and Trinty; three nephews: Bryson, Jaxson and Caden; special uncle, David and aunt Libby Hale who shared the love of worship of God with him; aunt, Barb Buchanan who he cherished and aunt Marsh Viers who he had many talks with; and a host of cousins left to remember all the good time spent with Jimi.

Jimi graduated from MEOC with a degree in welding, which he loved. Later he was employed by Southern Forest in Appalica, VA as a Chipper man where he worked alongside many great hard-working men. Jimi was always up for anything at any time. He had the laughter and he and his high school sweetheart and soulmate took many spontaneous adventures, traveling where the map would take them. Anyone who knew or ever met Jimi met a man full of life, big hopes and even bigger dreams, a wonderful man who loved unconditionally.

A memorial will be held at a later date sharing stories and pictures, cherishing Jimi Shawn Charles' life.

"Gone too soon but never forgotten; gather your wings, my love; fly high like an eagle and I'll meet you in my dreams."