School & Community News

Charleston L. Beck July 7, 1950 - September 10, 2010

Mr. Charleston L. Beck was born on July 7, 1950 in Shreveport, Louisiana to Willie L. Beck and Ruby Horton. The fifth of seven children, he had four brothers, Willie, Jr., Arthur, James and Elijah and two sisters, Ella Mae and Melba. An extremely happy child, he was always laughing, smiling and very active. He was very independent and dependable. He started working at the age of fifteen. “He and his brother used to make sand ties and roll them up to leave dust behind on a dusty road.” Educated in the public school system, Charleston graduated from Charlotte Mitchell High School in Bosier City, Louisiana where he played varsity football. He continued his education at Grambling University in Grambling , LA where he played college football.
On May 22, 2000, Charleston was united in marriage with Elizabeth D. Godbey at the Eden Brook Commons in Aurora, Colorado by Pastor Frank M. Davis. She remembers “alot of beautiful times, bike riding, his always telling jokes, famous for tricks, walks in the park, holding hands.” To this union were born two beautiful daughters, Destynne and Erica. He also had two other beautiful daughters, Jackie and Jennifer from a previous marriage. He was a devoted husband and loving father. Destynne remembers, “Every time I talked to my dad, he always told me he loved me, even if it was several times a day. I will always remember his smile and loving spirit.” His grandchildren, Destynne, Dre’anna, Emmani, Evan, Shonte, Brittany, Jacoby, Kenny, Nevaeh, Teqoia, Collin and Theodric remember, “Grandpa gave the best hugs and had a beautiful smile. He always took us on walks and to MacDonald’s.”
From 1973 - 1982, Charleston was the founder and owner of “Mr. Poff Barber and Beauty Salon in the Five Points area of Denver, CO. He subsequently was employed as a mover, packer and loader for 12 years with North American Van Lines. Known for being a hard worker, but at the end of the day, he was loved for being a jokester. In his free time, he enjoyed family and friends. His best friends were Ernie, Thorkill, George and Dawyer. He liked Jazz and his favorite expressions were, “I see you so much, I see three of you”. “When he was ready for you to go home, he would say, “Okay, it’s time for you to go home and get some rest.” and you knew he was kicking you out.”
“Charleston loved life and was filled with it, very protective of his family. Always looked good and had a smile that would light up an entire room. Known as an instigator.” He was dearly loved and will be deeply missed.