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Charles’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and a steadfast devotion to those he held dear.

Charles Gladden, affectionately known by his family and friends as "Poop and Rabbit," passed away peacefully in his home in Washington DC on June 21, 2026, just days shy of his 68th birthday. Born on June 24, 1958, also in Washington DC, Charles’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and a steadfast devotion to those he held dear.

Charles was a man whose heart beat strongest for his family. He is survived by his cherished son, Adam Gladden, and another son who bears his own name, Charles Gladden Sr. His dear sister, Alice Gladden, as well as his brother, Andre Gladden, remain to carry forward the memories and values he so diligently imparted. Charles was a doting grandfather to his grandchildren, Chantel and Chanel Gladden, and grandsons Charles and Blaike Gladden, and all of his nieces and nephews  each of whom held a special place in his heart and brought an unmistakable twinkle to his eye.

Charles was predeceased by his loving mother, Alice Gladden, his beloved wife, Deborah Mathis-Gladden, and his sister, Shirley Wiley. Their memories, so deeply etched in his own life, persist in the stories and gentle spirit he leaves behind.

Known as a stand-up guy and a dedicated family man, Charles embodied a loving and kind nature. His warmth drew people close, and his infectious enthusiasm for life radiated in everything he did. He was a true people person, able to turn even the simplest moments—like an ordinary Saturday morning—into cherished memories.

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His warmth drew people close, and his infectious enthusiasm for life radiated in everything he did.

Much of Charles’s life was spent under the open sky, working as a talented roofer and embracing his love of the outdoors. Fishing and biking filled many of his days, and he found joy in gathering loved ones to share these passions with them. Charles’s affinity for adventure extended to his favorite tradition—attending the Cherry Blossom Festival, especially on kite day. The delight in his voice when he recounted these outings could inspire even the most reluctant family member or friend to join in.

One memory that many hold dear is how Charles would show up early on Saturday mornings, cooler and fishing pole in hand, his signature big smile lighting up the day. With gentle insistence and good-humored persuasion, he managed to get everyone outside—even those who at first resisted the idea of fishing. Laughter and stories would fill the air, and by dusk, new memories and promises of another outing would have been woven into the fabric of family lore.

Of all his accomplishments, Charles held most dear the joy of marrying his beloved wife and raising their two sons. By his own measure, loving his family and bearing witness to their milestones was life’s greatest reward.

Those who knew Charles will remember a man whose robust spirit, kindness, and love for the outdoors left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path. His presence will be deeply missed, but his stories, laughter, and steadfast devotion to family will remain with us always.

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Charles’s affinity for adventure extended to his favorite tradition—attending the Cherry Blossom Festival, especially on kite day.

Funeral services to honor and celebrate the life of Charles Gladden will be announced by the family in the coming days. His family invites all who wish to share in remembrance and bid farewell to a man whose life was marked by gentleness, joy, and unwavering love.