Charles E. Reardon, of Brownville, New York, passed away on Friday, May 17, 2024, at Hospice of Jefferson County in Watertown, NY, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on June 3,1933, in Watertown, New York, the son of John and Grace (Parker) Reardon.
Charles graduated from Immaculate Heart Academy (IHA) in 1953. Following high school, he enlisted and was honorably discharged from the United States Army. He continued his education at Jefferson Community College where he earned an Associate’s Degree. Charles initially worked at Bradley’s Hardware before embarking on a distinguished career in Law enforcement.
Charles began his law enforcement career with the Alex Bay Police Department. In 1972, he transferred to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, where he served as a Sergeant in the Communications Department. A dedicated educator, he taught at the Police Academy in Watertown and became the first police officer in the county to be certified as a police instructor. In recognition of his service and excellence, Charles was named “Police Officer of the Year” in 1975 and received an American Legion Award from Post 61.
After retiring from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department in 1998, Charles continued his commitment to public service by working as a security guard at the Jefferson County Court for another decade, eventually retiring in 2016 at the age of 83.
Charles was also a proud graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy, in Quantico, Virginia.
Charles was also a member of the Watertown Elks Lodge #496, and had a passion for deep sea diving, archery, photography, and bowling.
Charles married Kathleen Parsons on July 26, 1974, at the Immaculate Conception church in the Village of Brownville, where the couple resided.
Charles is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his children: Michael L. (Juanita) Reardon of Watertown, NY, and Barbara R. (Todd) Keefer of Carthage, NY; five grandchildren: Ashley (Harry) Moseley III, Jordan Reardon, Taylor Reardon, Jonathan Reardon, and Kassidy Keefer; four great grandchildren: Faith, Harry IV, Hallee, and another great grandchild expected in October. He is also survived by three devoted nephews: Tim (Jackie) Reardon, John (Nancy) Reardon, and Michael (Joanne) Reardon; and several other nieces and nephews.
Charles was predeceased by two sisters: Catherine Hoffman and Mary Frances Reardon; and two brothers: Frederick Reardon, who died in World War II, and John Reardon.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, from 4:00pm - 7:00pm at the Johnson Funeral Home, Dexter. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 11:00 am at the funeral home. There will be a luncheon at the Ives Hill Country Club 465 W. Flower Ave in Watertown immediately following the funeral. The burial will be in Dexter Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Donations may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County, 1398 Gotham St, Watertown, New York 13601. The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice for their kindness and compassion during Charles’ stay.
Online condolences may be made at www.dexterfuneralhome.com
To send flowers
to the family, please visit our floral store.