Charles Edward Essary passed away at his home in Springfield, Missouri on Friday, November 5, 2021.

He was born in Springfield, Missouri to Bert and Norma Essary on September 11, 1951. A life-long north sider, he attended and graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1969. He worked for a number of years at the Springfield News-Leader, then for Payne Sign Company, a brief stint with his friend Steve Hutchinson at Hutchinson Sporting Goods and eventually worked in the Building Regulations Department at the City of Springfield from where he retired.

Charlie was very involved in the prolific fast pitch softball era of the 1970’s and early 80’s where he formed friendships that lasted until his death. He also became very involved in helping young baseball players at Hillcrest, Drury, Labette Community College in Kansas and anywhere else kids wanted help. He was instrumental in a small way to the success of many young men throughout southwest Missouri both on and off the baseball field. He also enjoyed playing golf, playing the guitar, writing a song or two and of course telling stories about the softball and baseball days mentioned above.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Bert and Norma Essary of Springfield, Missouri. He is survived by his sister, Patty Collins of Springfield, Missouri; his two sons Marc and wife Jennifer of Boise, Idaho; Matt and his wife Casey of Atlanta, Georgia; his grandchildren Colton (Marc and Jennifer), Addison and Brooks (Matt and Casey); his niece and nephew Sheri and Jeff Collins; and many, many extended family and friends.

The family would like to thank Blake Wixson and the Musick family for their help during the last few months. Words cannot describe how much we appreciate you.

An informal visitation is scheduled at Greenlawn North from 6-8 pm on Saturday, November 13. The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers or gifts, donations will be accepted if desired and given to the Andy Gott Memorial Scholarship Fund benefiting Hillcrest baseball players. Cash and checks acceptable, made payable to the Andy Gott Scholarship Fund.