WHITE STONE—Charles Edwin “Chuck” Hesaltine Jr., 100, passed away in his sleep on January 2, 2026, leaving behind a century defined by service, love, curiosity and quiet strength.
Born June 9, 1925, Chuck grew up in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. As a young man, he answered the call to serve his country during World War II, enlisting in 1943. For three years he proudly served as a field hospital surgical technician, first in Algeria and then through Italy, France and Germany until the end of the war.
After returning home, Chuck met the love of his life, Kathryn Lois Sheriff, at a dance. They were married on November 20, 1948, at Christ Church in Alexandria, beginning a partnership that lasted 72 remarkable years. Together, Chuck and Kathy built a life rooted in devotion, shared adventure, and family.
Chuck pursued higher education at George Washington University, where he earned a bachelor of science and master’s in geography. He went on to manage an office machine company in Washington, D.C.
Chuck was an active member of the Alexandria Boat Club until he and Kathy retired to White Stone. Together they rebuilt their home overlooking the bay that brought them peace, beauty and cherished memories. Chuck was a lifelong fisherman and loved fishing in the Chesapeake Bay with friends, once winning the Deltaville Bluefish tournament. Later in life he learned fine woodworking, building furniture treasured by family members today. He was an avid reader of books until the end of his life.
After Kathy’s passing in 2021, Chuck continued to live independently at home, thanks to the care and devotion of his daughter, Nancye, who moved in with him and made it possible for him to remain there until November of this year.
Chuck is survived by his son, Scott Hesaltine (Betty) of Richmond; his daughter, Nancye Hesaltine (James Wong) of Baltimore, Md.; his brother, Robert Hesaltine of Bethany Beach, Del.; and his sister, Lynda Johnson of Johnstown, Pa. He was a proud grandfather to Emily Walker (Matthew) of Midlothian, Tarina Corelli (Jeff) of New York, N.Y., and Julie Bailey (Jonathan) of Richmond. He was a delighted great-grandfather to Elise and Paul Walker; Reese, Scott and Luke Corelli; and Thomas Bailey. He is also fondly remembered by Finn, his daughter’s loyal dog and constant companion.
Chuck’s life spanned a century of change, yet he remained grounded in kindness, humility and love for his family. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a caring father and grandfather, a loyal friend and a man who quietly made the world better through his presence.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
