Charles Wallace Hairston was born on February 12, 1933 in Rockdale, Texas to William and Cora Hairston.  He passed away into the loving arms of his father in Heaven on August 10, 2019 at the age of 86 years, 5 months and 29 days.

As a young boy, he survived typhoid fever and had to learn to walk again.  He honed his shooting skills using glass alcohol bottles which were emptied to cool his fever.  He was a life-long cowboy.  As a teenager, he and his brother's broke horses to help support his family of eight.

He met his wife, Betty in the 6 ^th grade where he dipped her blonde braids in the ink wells.  They were married as high school sweethearts in 1951and their union lasted 67 years.  He was a wonderful husband, father and Christian.  He spent all his time and resources with and for his family.

He worked for Southern Pacific Railroad for 43 years as a mechanic and refrigeration specialist, being transferred all over the State of Texas. After retiring 25 years ago, he was an active member of the Lions Club and an avid gun collector and gunsmith. He enjoyed a long and healthy life.

He was preceded in death by his eldest daughter, Belinda and beloved wife, Betty.

He is survived by:

Brother, W.T. Hairston of Hondo, Texas

Daughters and Sons-in-law, Cheryl and Chris Ragnes of Nacogdoches and Beverly and Myron Stowe of Fort Collins, Colorodo

Son and Daughter-in-law, Chuck and Rita Hairston of Franklin, Texas

8 Grandchildren; Matthew Ragnes, Bryan Ball, Chelsea Ragnes, Clementine Stowe, Calvin Ragnes and Blythe Stowe

6 Great Grandchildren; Trinity Ragnes, Cyrus Ragnes, Emma Ball, Olivia Ball, Nora Ball and Chloe Clifton

Numerous beloved nieces and nephews

Services for Charles Hairston will be held on Tuesday, August 13, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. at the Franklin Church of Christ.  Burial will follow in the Sandy Creek Cemetery in Milano, Texas. Visitation will be held on Monday, August 12, 2019 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at the McCauley Funeral Home in Franklin.

Donations may be made to the Franklin Lions Club or to the Sandy Creek Cemetery 256 County Road 360 Milano, Texas 76556.