Our beloved Charlie Frank Wilcox, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 18, 2024, at the age of 79. He was born on January 31, 1945, in Marfa, Texas, to Frank and Edwina Wilcox. Charlie was a resilient individual who faced life’s challenges with a positive attitude and unwavering strength.
Charlie moved to El Paso, Texas, where he recently resided. He attended Ysleta High School and graduated in 1964. Charlie’s love story began in high school when he met his high school sweetheart, Elisa Wilcox. They were married for an incredible 58 years, and together 60 years. Their bond was a testament to their enduring love, strength and commitment.
Charlie’s family mattered deeply to him. He is survived by his wife Elisa, his four children, nine grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. First child- Charlie Jr. Wilcox married to Stella and children Christopher married to Ariel with one child, the first great grandchild, Ezra, and second son, Justin. Second child -Daughter, Deborah Petty and children Charlie and Ava. Third Child -Daughter Jennifer Suarez married to David and children Zachary, Madison, and Joi. And the fourth and youngest son, Roman Wilcox married to Adriana, and children Samae and Camille. He is also survived by his siblings Lyra Duran, John Wilcox, and Rose Wilcox.
Education played a significant role in Charlie’s life. He received an Associate’s in Art and an Associate’s in Applied Science from El Paso Community College. He then received a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University. Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, he obtained a Master’s in Education from The University of Texas at El Paso and a Masters in Criminal Justice from the University of Sul Ross.
Charlie served his country and community with dedication and integrity. From 1965 to 1970, he proudly served as a Navy Sailor, specializing as a jet mechanic on a Carrier Ship. Following his military service, Charlie joined the El Paso Police Department in 1971, where he served as a police officer and eventually retired after 25 years in 1996 as a Detective. His commitment to justice extended to the classroom as well. Charlie shared his knowledge and passion for the law as a teacher at Socorro High School and Montwood High School, teaching Criminal Justice until his retirement in 2014 from the Socorro Independent School District.
In his leisure time, Charlie found solace in watching old western movies, he loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting. He believed in optimism and would often say to “stay positive, everything will work out as it should”, reminding those around him to remain optimistic.
Charlie’s strength and resilience were evident in his battle against two stage 4 cancers simultaneously. He faced this challenge with bravery and fought to overcome it. His kind, nurturing nature left a lasting impact on the community, and his legacy will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Charlie could not go anywhere without someone knowing him, an old friend, past student, coworker or neighbor. He was truly community.
Charlie Frank Wilcox, also known as Butch by his siblings, will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.
Funeral Service Times are as follows:
Sunset Funeral Homes- East.
750 N. Carolina El Paso, Tx 79915.
Tuesday, July 2, 2024.
Visitation: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Prayer & Eulogy Service:
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Sunset Funeral Homes- East.
Wednesday, July 3, 2024.
Chapel Service 12 PM – 1:00 PM
*Procession immediately.
following Chapel Service.
To Ft. Bliss National Cemetery.
for Graveside Service.
1:30 PM - 2 PM
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
4:00 - 8:00 pm (Mountain time)
Sunset Funeral Homes - East
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Starts at 6:00 pm (Mountain time)
Sunset Funeral Homes - East
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Starts at 12:00 pm (Mountain time)
Sunset Funeral Homes - East
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Starts at 1:30 pm (Mountain time)
Fort Bliss National Cemetery
Visits: 852
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