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RICHMOND – Marilyn Regina Charles was born to Ernestine Britt and Johnnie B. Britt on Aug. 4, 1957, in Franklin and the world shined brighter from that day forward. She spread her joy, love and light everywhere, from the homes of family and neighbors on Langston and Hall Streets to the basketball court at Hampton University, throughout the corporate world and beyond. She passed away in Richmond at age 66 on Jan. 22, 2024, with her children Larry Charles Jr. and Reneice Charles and her nephews, Ge

rald Britt and Antoine Britt by her side.

Regina (or Gina, as she was known by those close to her) was special. The kind of woman who left a positive mark on everyone she encountered. She was a shoulder to lean on, a source of spiritual counsel and a pillar of strength to her friends and family.

Regina was the epitome of a godly woman with enormous, unshakeable faith and reverence for the Lord. Her love of God radiated from her very being.

Family was always at the center of Regina’s life. In times of need, she visited nursing homes, sat faithfully at hospital bedsides and helped however she could, big or small.

Regina graduated from Hampton University in 1979 and earned an MBA from Pace University in 1988. In her extraordinary career, she broke barriers as an Executive Human Resource Leader. She reached the heights of success at prestigious companies, including Xerox, DuPont, and most recently Cytec Industries, from which she proudly retired at 58. She was known to lead with compassion and was a mentor to many.

Regina loved to travel and was an accomplished writer. In 2006, she published her own book of poetry, Mini Nuggets of Wisdom and aspired to publish more. Regina also enjoyed exploring with her husband, Eric and dominated the bowling lanes as an active member of local leagues. She achieved many incredible things, but her greatest joy and accomplishment was her children. Regina was an angel sent to teach us all how to love, have faith and cherish life.

Regina was predeceased and greeted in heaven by her father, Johnnie B. Britt; brother, Gerald Wayne Britt and niece, Angela Britt. She leaves many loved ones to honor her memory, including her mother, Ernestine Britt; children, Larry Charles Jr. and Reneice Charles; siblings Johnnie Britt Jr., Glenda Denise Britt and Bryon Britt; husband Eric Sudler and favorite pet Nehemiah Munchie Sudler.

On Friday, a public viewing will be held at the funeral home from 3 – 7 p.m. A celebration of love will be held on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024 at noon at First Baptist Church, 318 Hall Street in Franklin, where the Rev. Marcus Jennings is the pastor. On the day of service, her remains will be placed in church for viewing by 10:30 a.m. Service provided by the professional and caring staff of Wm. M. Johnson & Sons Funeral Home Inc., 224 South Main Street in Franklin. Please share your condolences with the family at wmjohnsonandsons.com.