Mr. Charles Arthur Bainbridge

The sixth child of Thomas A. and Faith E. (Gifford) Bainbridge, Charles Arthur Bainbridge walked through Heaven's gates in the early morning hours of July 1, exactly two months shy of his 71st birthday. Born in Morristown, N.J., in 1951, Charlie grew up one of seven siblings. After tragedy struck twice, leaving the seven orphaned when Charlie was the tender age of 11, the oldest sister, Maylou, stepped in to raise the family. It was not an easy road for any of them, but under her love and guidance, the siblings remained together. Today, each of them has their own beautiful family to show for it. In 1978, Charlie's life changed favorably when he met Susan. They were married two years later in Lenox, Mass. They brought two children into this world, Amy and Matthew, both of whom were raised here in the Berkshires. Charlie naturally valued the importance of hard work. He advanced through college, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from William Paterson University in New Jersey, and, later, a Master of Arts in education at Westfield State College. This required much effort and dedication. After all, studying while working full-time, with baby Amy at home was no small feat. Charlie influenced countless students during his twenty years in the classroom. He taught both math and social studies in public and private schools, summer school, and Special Education. He created meaningful relationships with even the most marginalized youth: He saw a child for who he or she was, not what he or she wasn't. The rapport he created with others was one to be modeled, and that extended beyond classroom walls to relationships that he molded within his church community and social circles. From all who hear his name, the same utterance leaves their lips: "He always wore a smile." Charlie was kind. That's it, he was kind: a rare trait these days. As time passed, Charlie faced hardship. In 1995 he was diagnosed with hydrocephalus and other brain injuries, which led to a slew of other maladies, including early onset dementia. After a significant fall in 2017, Charlie was no longer able to walk on his own. Ultimately, he died of respiratory failure, though he was able to spend his final week on Earth surrounded by family, the most important thing to him-his pride and joy. Predeceased by his parents and, just four days prior, dear sister Mary, Charlie leaves his beloved wife, Susan, and their two children, Amy Bainbridge-Jordan (Michael) of Ashley Falls, Mass., and Matthew Bainbridge (Lalita) of Natick, Mass. He also leaves three beautiful grandchildren, Theodore, Isaac, and Jameson. Similarly, he leaves his cherished siblings, Maylou, Tom, Barbara, Betty, and Carol. Those who knew him take comfort that Charlie Bainbridge strolled through Heaven's gates on his own feet that July morning, smiling as always. Even after his passing, we can graciously continue to learn from Charlie. When life turns difficult, smile and make the best of it. Please scan the QR code for details/to RSVP for Charlie's Celebration of Life ceremony on August 6 in Ashley Falls, Mass. You may also email Amy Bainbridge-Jordan at amybethbainbridge@gmail.com.

Mr. Charles Arthur Bainbridge

September 1, 1951 - July 1, 2022