Charlene Peeks

Charlene Peeks, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and lifelong resident of Dayton, Ohio, passed away peacefully at the age of 78. Born on November 10, 1946, to the late Shiloh and Alice Crawford, Charlene lived a life filled with love, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family.

Charlene was the devoted wife of Frederick D. Peeks, her partner in life for 61 wonderful years. Together, they built a loving and enduring home where family was always the heart. She was a proud and nurturing mother to three children: Melodie Peeks, Shelley Davis (Jerome Davis), and Kelly Peeks (Angie Peeks)—each of whom carry forward her legacy of kindness, resilience, and grace.

Charlene was the oldest of four children. She is survived by her loving brothers Shiloh Crawford Jr. (Marsha) and Michael Crawford (Vickie), and was preceded in death by her brother Robert Crawford. She embraced her role as the eldest sibling with care, leadership, and unwavering support. Her influence on the family extended across generations, and she was a beloved aunt to numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom she loved deeply and encouraged with warmth and wisdom.

She pursued her calling in healthcare and earned her nursing degree from Sinclair College, dedicating her professional life to caring for others with compassion and skill. Her calm presence and tireless commitment made her a source of strength and comfort for both patients and colleagues.

Charlene found her greatest joy in the love of her family. She was a devoted grandmother to Jessica Walker, Miles Peeks, Alexis Davis, Deena Fleming, Ashley Peeks, Jayla Peeks, and Jaden Peeks, and a proud great-grandmother as well. Her cherished traditions—like baking Christmas cookies with her grandchildren—became treasured moments filled with laughter and love.

A natural planner, Charlene brought care and intention to every holiday and celebration. She was a talented cook who loved trying new recipes, often turning meals into unforgettable memories. She also shared her creativity as a seamstress, sewing doll clothes for local festivals and bringing smiles to many children.

Charlene had a special bond with her beloved dog, Chyna, who accompanied her and Fred on many road trips across the country, sharing in their adventures and adding joy to every journey.

Her legacy is one of grace, devotion, and quiet strength. Charlene’s home was a place of welcome, her presence a source of calm, and her life an inspiration to all who knew her.

She will be remembered always for her compassion, wisdom, and the many ways she enriched the lives of those around her—with every meal, every plan made, every stitch sewn, and every loving word spoken.

Service and remembrance details will be shared with family and friends in the coming days. The family invites all who knew Charlene to reflect on the joy she brought into their lives and to honor her memory by living with the same care, warmth, and grace she so effortlessly gave.

Funeral Service 12 pm Friday, June 20, 2025 at House of Wheat Funeral Home, 2107 N. Gettysburg Ave., Dayton, OH. Visitation 10 am- 12 pm. Family will receive friends 11 am- 12 pm. Entombment Royal Oak Memorial Gardens.

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