Brian Keith Charles
1969—2023

Brian Keith Charles, 54, of Phelps, passed away Nov. 18, 2023, at his other residence in Inez.

Born March 4, 1969, in Williamson, West Virginia, he was the son of Janet “Hudgins” Charles of Phelps and the late Paul Charles.

In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by his sister, Paula Gail Charles.

Brian was the principal of Martin County High School and the former principal of Warfield Elementary School.

He was of the Protestant faith.

Brian was part of the Phelps High School 15th Region champion basketball team in 1988 and a Kentucky Colonel.

He dedicated his life to being an educator and was a devoted dad and grandfather, cherishing his family.

In addition to Brian’s mother, Janet, those remaining to cherish Brian’s memory include his children, Corey (Raeanna) Charles of Huddy and Brett (Kailee) Charles of Forest Hills; his brother, Dr. Mitch (Dr. Paulette) Charles of Huntington, West Virginia; two sisters, Sissy Charles and Ginger (Patrick) Jones, both of Pikeville; grandchildren, Raelynn, Denlei, Aspen, Saylor and Palmer Charles; nieces and nephews, Austin, Cody, Angel, Emilie, Olivia, Hunter, Ginna and Raven. Special friends include Larry James, superintendent of Martin County School District, all of the staff and students of Warfield Elementary and Martin County High School, and the community of Martin County.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023, at the Jones & West Funeral Home in Phelps from 6-9 p.m.

Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Wednesday in the chapel, with pastors James Justice, Mitch Bowling, Earl Jones and Tom Dotson officiating.

Interment will conclude at Buddy Hatfield Cemetery in Jamboree. Cody Estep, Austin Estep, Hunter Jones, Matt Smith, Brett Charles and Corey Charles will serve as pallbearers.

Arrangements are under the direction of Jones & West Funeral Home of Phelps. The guestbook may be viewed online at joneswestfh.com.