St. George Says Farewell to Charles James Weeks, Sr., 85 — Beloved Businessman, Devoted Church Leader, and Heart of the Community

ST. GEORGE, SC – The community of St. George is remembering one of its most respected and cherished figures, Charles James Weeks, Sr., who passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Colleton Medical Center. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, businessman, and church leader, Charles left an indelible mark on countless lives through his generosity, faith, and unwavering sense of humor.

Funeral services honoring his life will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at St. George Methodist Church. The service will be officiated by Rev. Joey McDonald, with burial following at the historic St. George Cemetery. The family will receive friends and community members for visitation starting at 9:30 AM on the morning of the service. Pallbearers for the ceremony include Patrick Westbury, Nelson McLeod, Andy Williams, Ralph Reeves, Richard Sutcliffe, and Allen Mayes.

A Life of Faith, Family, and Service

Born on December 11, 1939, in St. George, Charles was the son of the late John Wesley Weeks and Margaret Westbury Weeks. He was a proud graduate of St. George High School, class of 1958. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the National Guard, where he displayed the same diligence and integrity that would define his later career and community contributions.

In 1966, Charles married the love of his life, Lois Brunson Weeks. Their nearly six decades of marriage were a testament to shared devotion, partnership, and mutual commitment to uplifting those around them. Together, they raised two children and remained deeply rooted in the St. George community.

Local Icon and Humble Business Owner

Perhaps best known to residents as the warm and witty proprietor of Weeks’ Department Store, Charles was the very definition of a “people person.” With a ready smile and a well-timed joke, he created more than just a place to shop — he cultivated a community hub where neighbors gathered, stories were exchanged, and customers became friends. His business wasn’t just about merchandise; it was about relationships, kindness, and community spirit.

Beyond his role as a businessman, Charles dedicated much of his life to his faith. A lifelong and faithful member of St. George Methodist Church, he served in numerous capacities and found special joy and fellowship as part of the Carlisle Utsey Sunday School class. His presence in the church was steady and encouraging, and he was often a quiet yet firm pillar of support during both joyful and trying times for fellow congregants.

A Legacy of Love and Friendship

Charles was preceded in death by his brother, John Wesley Weeks, Jr.; sisters-in-law, Patricia Weeks, June B. Willson, and Alice B. Coleman; and brothers-in-law, Steven Henry Brunson, William Jerry “Tub” Brunson, James Vaughan, Byrnes Coleman, and Jerry McLeod.

He is survived by his devoted wife Lois B. Weeks; son Charles James “Charlie” Weeks, Jr. and daughter-in-law Dawn, both of St. George; daughter Mary Margaret Weeks Westbury and son-in-law Lawrence, of St. Matthews. He was a proud grandfather to Colby Weeks and Caden Weeks, who will carry forward his legacy of compassion, humor, and dedication.

Also mourning his passing are his sister Cindy Weeks Gaetke (Jeff); sisters-in-law Virginia Brunson Vaughan, Billie Brunson McLeod, Rose Brunson Drose (Frankie), Ruby Brunson Livingston (Bill), Gloria Brunson Holladay (Ken), Gayle Brunson (Nelson Parker), and Cindy Harrington Brunson; and brother-in-law Joe Willson (Pam). Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and longtime family friends, including Ralph and Susie Reeves, Kelli, Landon, Anna Landi, and Eliza Ross Wimberly, also share in the grief of his loss.

Honoring a Life Well Lived

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Charles’s name to:

• St. George Methodist Church – Ross Reeves Audio/Visual Fund, PO Box 506, St. George, SC 29477
• Indian Field Campground, PO Box 433, St. George, SC 29477
• Edisto Habitat for Humanity, PO Box 2489, Orangeburg, SC 29116

These organizations reflect Charles’s lifelong commitment to service, fellowship, and helping others — values he lived every single day.

As St. George bids farewell to one of its most treasured residents, the community finds solace in the enduring example he set — a life grounded in faith, fueled by compassion, and always shared with a laugh.