Charles Ries, Jr.

Ries ~ “His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” – Matthew 25:23

Charles Ries Jr., age 85, transitioned peacefully on March 31, 2026, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was born May 17, 1940, in Hurtsboro, Alabama, to the union of Charles Henry and Mary Ries.

His family later moved to Chicago, where he received his education through the Chicago Public Schools, attending Doolittle Elementary and Chicago Vocational High School. Charles built a life defined by hard work, consistency, and purpose. He began his career as a meat cutter for Hillman’s Pure Food Stores, known for its high-quality food departments. He later worked for twenty-six years in the culinary arts department at Stateville Correctional Center, where he retired.

He moved to Jacksonville, Florida, in 2000 to retire. Just when his family thought he was finally finished working, he wasn’t. After relocating to Florida, Charles continued his passion for culinary work at Jacksonville Community College (now Florida State College at Jacksonville) for an additional twelve years. Even then, he still wasn’t quite ready to slow down. He spent a year working part-time at Sam’s Club, happily handing out food samples, before finally stepping into a well-earned retirement—this time for good—where he chose to serve others by volunteering with Meals on Wheels.

Charles accepted Christ at an early age at 42nd Street Church of God, where he was a member of the men’s quartet. After moving to Jacksonville, Florida, he continued his faith journey at Greater Jacksonville Church of God, then Treasure City Church of God, and later Greater Harvest Christian Fellowship. There, he faithfully served on the Deacon Board and in the Marriage Enrichment Ministry.

As much as he loved working, he loved sharing the Word of God everywhere he went. From standing on street corners in Chicago with the men’s group to sharing his testimony and praying for the nursing staff and doctors as he transitioned, his witness was unwavering.

Charles was truly a prayer warrior.

Memorial Service for Charles Ries, Jr. will be 11:00AM Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Greater Harvest Christian Fellowship, 9113 Ridge Boulevard.  Because of the love of his family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Drive, 904-924-9400

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