Growing up in Croydon Acres I often walked to the other side of town to visit my grandmother on First Avenue.  I walked passed the Cedar Ave Underpass where a graffitied cross was displayed the stated "KKK".  That cross was there for years representing the prejudice the residents felt towards African Americans and people of other ethnic backgrounds.

Charles Gary came to town as he starting dating the fire chiefs daughter. Charles's mother ( Grace ) insisted that Charles walk her home every night, to instill his gentleman values. Facing the fear of walking through such a racists town, Charles did it anyway. Being chased with a tire jack and having bricks thrown through his living room window as his family sat around the television,  the burning of a cross on his friends front yard, being sucker punched and knock out with his hands in his pockets ( which was the only way they were taking him down), didn't stop Charles from coming through. NOTHING DID ! He was determined to be a part of this community and his presence be known. His mission was very much accomplished. He completed this goal through kindness. Charles always stepped up to help someone in need. He protected those around him. He was funny and made everyone laugh. He loved going to the local parties and attended all the funerals as well. He was honest , hardworking and forgiving. He later became friends with the man who held that tire jack and the man who threw that brick. Charles became a staple to the community and it wasn't easy by any means. He faced a lot of diversty as handled it all with grace and dignity.  You won't find anyone that would ever say a bad word about Charles. As our parents were once very skeptic about us youths becoming friends with a black man , they quickly changed their minds once he became a part of our lives. He was welcomed at more Thanksgiving tables then anyone I know. He attended all fundraisers and events, such as the fireworks on the 4th of July at Mary Devine, The VFW Memorial Day Parade , Opening Day at BTNLL, the Croydon Acres Yard Sale and Croydon Fun Day.

I am proposing that the Cedar Avenue Underpass that once displayed that cross now display a mural in memory to the man that made the difference. He led by example in so many was and gave back to this community so often . He did it . He earned. He deserves it !