Charles M. Townsend

Charles M. “Skip” Townsend peacefully passed into the arms of the Lord on March 11, 2025, in Lynchburg, VA. Although this may be a day of mourning for those who knew him, he would remind us of that special bond he always shared. For it was on Christmas Day in 1944, in Cincinnati, OH, that he was born to the late Charles M. Townsend Sr. and Elvira F. Townsend.

He later moved to Brooklyn, NY, where his love of music had many outlets, and he made many lifelong friends. He had a special gift for reaching out and nurturing his friendships—not only with those from his early childhood but also with the countless friends he made in the Atlanta, GA, and Lynchburg, VA communities, both of which he called home. He will be most remembered as a loyal man who loved his family. He spent many hours tracing his family history and connecting with newly discovered relatives.

A Distinguished Military Career

As we mourn our loss, we also celebrate Skip’s life—a life that included answering the call of duty for his country. He served in the U.S. Army from August 1962 to August 1970, during the Vietnam War, where he was part of the U.S. Army Security Agency (ASA), an elite military intelligence unit.

A natural leader, Skip was responsible for setting up critical intelligence systems on the ground and conducting missions that provided vital information to support U.S. military operations. His work was part of highly classified intelligence operations, and for decades, much of what he did remained undisclosed—even to his family. Only in recent years, as portions of the ASA’s mission were declassified, did his loved ones come to fully understand the depth and significance of his service.

His missions required both strategic precision and untraditional ground tactics, ensuring that most of the men under his command returned home safely. His leadership and decision-making were so respected that many soldiers actively requested to be part of his unit, knowing they had a greater chance of survival under his command.

His time in the military was a source of immense pride, shaping his leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking in ways that would define and impact the rest of his life.

A Trailblazing Career in Technology

Following his honorable military service, Skip transitioned into the corporate world, joining IBM, where he built a long and successful career spanning over 25 years. His passion, drive, and work ethic not only propelled him into high-level positions but also afforded him the opportunity to achieve IBM’s prestigious 100% Club multiple times. His outstanding performance also earned him numerous awards, including the Means Service Award.

After retiring from IBM in 1998, Skip continued his passion for technology by founding his own business, Computer Management Technology (CMT), which brought him continued success.

A Legacy of Service and Community Impact

Skip always had a heart for people, and whenever he saw a need, he stepped up. His dedication to uplifting others led him to take on causes that made a lasting impact in his community and beyond.

After learning that several people he knew were affected by sickle cell anemia—including a co-worker whose two children had the disease, one of whom tragically passed away—Skip felt compelled to act. In conversations with local leaders and politicians such as Andrew Young, Julian Bond, Roger Bruce, and others, he gained deeper insight into how sickle cell anemia was affecting communities. Motivated to make a difference, he took action.

Through IBM in Atlanta, Skip organized and led a major sickle cell fundraiser, setting up an annual charity ball that brought together IBM employees, corporate sponsors like Coca-Cola, and other businesses. The event was successful and continued for multiple years, raising significant funds for sickle cell research and support programs. His leadership and organizational skills were so effective that IBM audited the initiative, found it to be exceptionally well-run, and increased its funding to further expand the effort. Inspired by his passion, many volunteers joined him, allowing the initiative to grow and make an even greater impact.

This was just one of the many causes Skip championed. He also dedicated his time and resources to mentoring and supporting young people in the Atlanta community, ensuring they had opportunities, encouragement, and guidance to build successful futures. His ability to bring people together and turn ideas into action left a lasting legacy of service, generosity, and empowerment.

A Life of Passion & Adventure

Skip lived an active and fulfilling life, embracing many passions along the way. As a youth, he was a Golden Gloves boxer, demonstrating both discipline and skill in the ring. In his later years, he took up karate, working his way to a green belt. He prioritized his health, embracing running, healthy eating, and exercise as part of his daily life.

Beyond his love for fitness, Skip had a passion for traveling and especially loved exploring new places with his beloved wife, Jo Ann. Whether through sports, fitness, or adventure, he always embraced life with enthusiasm and determination.

Beloved Family & Those He Leaves Behind

In addition to his parents, Skip was preceded in death by his oldest sister, Charlese Coleman, and his youngest sister and brother-in-law, Stephany and Dennis Ferguson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 40 years and dearest friend, Jo Ann Townsend; his daughter, Terinee Bonds (née Townsend) (Quenton) of Washington, DC; three siblings, Elvira “Vi” Moon of San Diego, CA, Myrna Peterkin of Lake Worth Beach, FL, and Alexander Townsend (Deborah) of Brooklyn, NY; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

Skip’s journey was one of purpose, love, and service—a life well lived and deeply cherished by all who knew him. Rest well, Skip—you fought a good fight!

Expressions of Gratitude

A very special thanks to the Kaiser Permanente medical team in Kennesaw, GA, and Centra Hospice of Lynchburg, VA, for their dedication and compassion. We are overwhelmed by the deeds of our devoted friend, Joe DeBose. His generosity and continued support have helped sustain us during our move back to Lynchburg. The 1966 class of Dunbar High School embraced and welcomed Skip. He valued the friendships he developed along the way, and for this, we are thankful.

We acknowledge with great appreciation the daily prayers, words of comfort, love, and support we received during this difficult time. The feeling of gratitude that the family feels could never be fully captured in words alone. We thank you for the memories we’ve made along the way. Most of all, we’re thankful that you were a part of our journey.

Psalm 90:10 (KJV)

The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. (Scripture frequently quoted by Skip)

A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Tharp Funeral Home, 220 Breezewood Drive, Lynchburg, VA 24502, followed by a burial at Spring Hill Cemetery and a repast immediately after at Tharp Funeral Home.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.