Charles Edward Rader

Charles Edward Rader of Orlando, Kentucky was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on August 9, 2024, thirteen days away from his seventy-fifth birthday. Our Lord lovingly gifted Charles to this world on August 22, 1949 to Raymond and Elsie (Chestnut) Rader.

Most importantly, Charles was a faithful servant of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was a member and deacon of Maretburg Baptist Church, enjoying sharing the Good News with friends and strangers alike.

His greatest joy was his “babydoll,” his loving and devoted wife of nearly fifty-five years, Dorothy Faye (Mason) Rader. The two became three when God blessed them with their daughter, Melissa Faye (Rader) Ikerd.

Charles was a jack of all trades—a craftsman, welder, master fisherman, mechanic, and gardener, but his greatest roles were husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all. He lovingly provided for his family, retiring from CSX Railroad after 35 years of loyal service. Even in his final moments, his heart was always for others.

His love and legacy will carry on through his wife, Dorothy Faye (Mason) Rader; daughter, Melissa (and Rick) Ikerd; three grandchildren, Lindsey (and Aaron) Baldwin, Sydney Ikerd, and Mackenzie (and Cody) Chitwood; great-granddaughter, Camilla Jayde Chitwood; two sisters, Glenna Smith and Marie Jennings; and a host of nieces, nephews, cherished friends, and fishing buddies.

Preceding him in death were his parents; brother, Bronco Rader; and sister, Juanita Deatherage.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, at Marvin E. Owens Home for Funerals in Broadhead, KY. Funeral service to follow with Bro. Randy McPheron and Lonnie McGuire officiating.

Carrying Charles to his final resting place at Briarfield Cemetery in Orlando, KY are active pallbearers Aaron Baldwin, Cody Chitwood, Ronnie Hensley, Adam Hensley, Paul Mason, and Michael David Lovell. Honorary pallbearers are David Mason and Patrick “Junior” Hickey.