Charles Paris

Charles Paris, a devoted veteran, dedicated worker and esteemed Mason, departed this life on Tuesday, November 11,2025, at the Veteran’s Hospital in West Haven, Connecticut, after a brief illness. He was 81 years old. Born on December 24,1943, in Stamford Connecticut, Charles was a beloved son of Gwendolyn “Susan” and Charles Paris. He graduated from Stamford High School in 1961 before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force. During his four honorable years of service, he was assigned to the 3920th Bombardment Group, where he exemplified courage and commitment. Following his military service, Charles embarked on a life of hard work and adventure. He spent several years as a marine merchant, traveling the seas, before becoming a long-distance truck driver for over a decade. Later, he joined the Advocate newspaper in Stamford, working in the delivery department until his retirement in 1986. Charles was deeply committed to his fraternal and spiritual life. A 33rd Degree Mason, he was a proud member of St. John Lodge #14. In 1977-1978, he was honored as Junior Warden of the Year by the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge F&A.M. of the State of Connecticut. His leadership continued when, in January 2001, he was elected Commander in Chief of New Haven Consistory #7, a role he faithfully held for many years. His dedication extended to numerous Masonic and fraternal organizations, including the Order of the Eastern Star, Dorcus Chapter #14; Jordan Council #2 Royal Select Masters; Circus Chapter #14, Royal Arch Masons; and Arabic Temple #4. Through these affiliations, Charles touched countless lives with his wisdom, generosity, and unwavering commitment to service. He was also a member of Faith Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Stamford Connecticut and a member of Community Church in New Canaan Connecticut. He was a member of the NAACP and the Urban League Chapter of Stamford Connecticut. Charles Paris will be remembered as a man of integrity, resilience, and devotion-whether to his family, his country, or his fraternal brothers and sisters. His legacy of service and fellowship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He leaves to cherish his memory his two daughters Susan Paris Neil of Dallas Texas, Leslie (Emanuel) Paris Davis of Gastonia NC, five grandchildren, Brittany Johnson of Gastonia NC, Paris (Logan) Johnson of Charlotte NC, Atalya Brown of Dallas TX, Aaron Paris of Gastonia NC and Adrianna Davis of Gastonia NC. Six brothers, Larry Hughes of Bridgeport Ct, Rasheen Paris of Manasa VA, Cortland Paris, and Vincent Paris of Bridgeport Ct, Jamar Paris of Windsor Ct, Donald Anderson of Indianapolis IN. Four sisters, Lucille Paris and Pamela Paris of St Paul MN, Lisa Paris-Jones and Shere Paris of Bridgeport Ct. His aunt Lucille (Joseph) Quillen, a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by both of his parents Gwendolyn “Susan” and Charles Paris, brother Walter Paris, aunt Wilhemina Paris Rucker, uncle William “Billy” Paris and paternal grandmother Grace Paris. Their reunion in eternity brings comfort to those who mourn his earthly departure. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His life was a testament to resilience, love and the importance of family. May his memory be a blessing and his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness. 2 Timothy 4:7-8