Charlie Tolbert was born in Sylvester, Georgia on April 29, 1951. He was the beloved son of the late Jessie James Tolbert and Carrie Bell Rushing Tolbert.

He received his formal education in the Worth County School System, graduating in the last class as Holley High School Wildcats in 1970.   In later years, he attended Albany Technical College where he received certificates in Welding and Diesel Mechanics.

Charlie believed strongly in loyalty and commitment to his country.  He enlisted in the United States Army and served with distinction during the Vietnam War in the Field Artillery.  A soldier to the core, patriotism continued on as he served in the Georgia Army National Guard, engaging in various operations from Europe to Bosnia.  He retired after more than 20 years of distinguished service in the reserves.

Never satisfied with idleness, Charlie embarked on a second career after his military retirement.  For more than 35 years, he was employed with Dougherty County Public Works where he exhibited a work ethic that was second to none.  Daily, he poured himself into his work; tackled challenges head-on; and always gave his best.  Charlie's hands were never idle outside of professional employment, as he was an exceptionally talented and accomplished automotive mechanic and farmer who was highly sought after and known for his outstanding skills; quality of service; and unquestionable integrity.

Charlie was a man of principle, truth, and simplicity who loved his family and friends unconditionally; never met a stranger; and was always ready to lend a helping hand.  He lived his life with great passion, strong morals, and readily looked for the good in all people.  Charlie was a genuinely good person, and one of the best husbands, fathers, grandfathers, brothers, uncles, nephews, and cousins anyone could ever hope for.

On March 11, 2024, Charlie transitioned from this earthly life to eternal rest and peace.

Precious memories will forever be cherished by his wife, Irene Edwards Tolbert; his children, Miranda (Roderick) Chambers, Tracy (Dannie) Jones, Sr., Lisa Tolbert, Audrey Tolbert, Elder Tyrone (Alicia) Downs, Tybias (Angela) Tolbert, and Dontavious Tolbert; siblings, Alice Lois Jefferson, Kathleen (Charles) Owens, Carolyn (Robert Sr.) Hill, Eula Dell Best, Robert (Ella) Tolbert, and Rufus Tolbert; grandchildren, Dannie Jr., Artesia, Dantavis, DeAngelo (Annie Kay), Hurty III, Sequioa (Michael), Jaleen, Marquis (Vivian), Victoria, Heaven (Andre), Calleigh, Georgia, Raniyah, Randishia, Tyra, Marcus, and Mariah; nephew (godson), Earl Gaines; 20 great grandchildren; 3 aunts; nieces and nephews; sisters and brothers-in-law; and a host of cousins, extended family, and friends.