Charlene Townsend, 82, of Festus died March 8, 2025, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Ms. Townsend worked in quality control for 34 years at White Rodgers, and part-time at Doe Run and Buchheit for a few years. She was strong in her faith. She was known to never meet a stranger and for often helping those in need, especially kids. She was also known for her macaroni and cheese and white chili recipes. She was passionate about sports, particularly football, track and pickleball. She was an avid card player who enjoyed bingo and thrifting. She loved spending time with her family and is remembered for her friendliness. Born April 20, 1942, in Herculaneum, she was the daughter of the late Malissa (Wells) Manning and Charles McGuire.
She is survived by three children: Wade Townsend of Festus, Kyra Lemons of Florissant and Scarlett (Jermaine) Smith; a brother: George (Dorothy) Manning of Florissant; and numerous other family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by a son: Rick Donnell Townsend; a granddaughter: Brandi Townsend; two sisters: Mary (the late Leroy) Alexander and Dora Anderson; four brothers: Dual Manning, Ben Manning, Robert Manning and Alfred Leroy (the late Clara) Manning.
A memorial gathering is scheduled from noon until a memorial service at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 22, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus. A family dinner will follow immediately after in the lower level of the Festus American Legion Post 253. Memorials may be made to the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.