Charleen Finch

The world has lost a remarkable life, Charleen "Char" Finch, whose spirit illuminated the darkness even brighter than the most radiant morning star. Charleen was born on December 29, 1947, in Robinson, IL, and peacefully passed away at her home in Evansville, IN, on October 20, 2023.

Char's journey of life was intimately shared with her beloved husband, Craig Saxton, whom she married on June 29, 2011, and who survives her. Her legacy will continue to bloom in the lives of her son & daughter-in-law, Gabe & Cathy Finch, and granddaughters Sydney and Ally. Charleen also leaves behind her step-children, Kodie Nessen, Melissa Comer, Becky Call, Michael Saxton, and James Saxton, along with six step-grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild. Her brother & sister-in-law, Keith & Cathy Spence, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and friends will remember her fondly. Charleen was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie R. Vaughn and Maxine (McDaniel) Spence, her step-father, Lawrence Spence, and sister, Jan Drummond.

Char's educational journey began in Palestine, IL, where she graduated from Palestine High School before embarking to Indiana State University, majoring in Social Work. From there, Charleen's life was characterized by a diverse and rich work history. From setting up Pandora Jewelry at the mall in Evansville to doing everything from bookkeeping to working the line at Mike Libs and the Chocolate Factory, she dived deep into every task she committed to.

But Char's work adventures didn't stop there; she was most known for her unique contributions to radio. The vibrant and charismatic Char played "Trixie," a clever, wisecracking waitress in the syndicated radio show "Daddy Dave's Hollywood Diner" in the late 80s and early 90s. Soon after, she transitioned into WJPS in the 90s, maintaining her renowned "Trixie" character. For over 20 years, Char represented DJ Mike Harvey, managing all work for his show, "Super Gold", and was crucial in connecting with affiliates and pulling Super Gold Sock Hops together. A lover of 50's rock and roll and doo-wop music, Char reveled in the bygone era to the extent of owning a poodle skirt! Over the years, she was fortunate enough to meet many iconic figures from the 50s, including Dick Clark and Elvis Presley.

Her other interests were as vibrant as she was - a master of crafting and scrapbooking, she was also an ace in the kitchen, as evidenced by the many mouth-watering casseroles she was known to whip together for those she loved. Char was a generous, caring soul who adhered to the age-old idiom of greeting friends like family, ensuring that everyone received a warm hug. She nurtured us all with love and was our biggest cheerleader, encouraging us to live with that same dazzling radiance of spirit that marked her 75 years with us.

Charleen "Char" Finch lived a vibrant, joy-filled life. With an unmatched energy and a keen sense of humor, she touched people's hearts in a unique way that could never be replicated. She was a remarkable woman who, even in her passing, continues to spread smiles and laughter through the memories she left behind. So let us not remember Char with sadness but with joy for having had her in our lives. We celebrate her spirit, her laughter, and, most importantly, we celebrate the love she so generously gave to each of us. This love will live on in our hearts for as long as we have the breath to speak her name.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 4th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. A memorial service will immediately follow on Saturday and be held at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Don Cavins officiating. During the service, family and friends will have the opportunity to share some of their favorite memories of this once-in-a-lifetime soul. Burial will be in the Palestine Cemetery.

For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Instead of flowers, her family simply asks that people "pay it forward", and do something kind for someone who needs help, encouragement, or a little bit of extra support".