Charles Monroe Fant fell asleep in death on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the age of 79. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, December 17, 1946, he was the eldest and only son of Charles Edward Fant and Willie Mae Parks-Fant. Charles was the husband to Pamela Maria Barner-Fant, married for 60 years and father to Lynette Marie Fant-Goodman and David Anthony Fant. Family and friends were important to Charles, especially his grandchildren – Amanda, Tyler, Bryce, and Alexandria. Great-grandchildren – Tyler Logan, Joey, Skyler, and Theo.

Charles graduated from Havre de Grace Consolidated High School (Class of ‘64), now known as Roye-Williams Elementary School. He was on the varsity basketball team and ran track. One of his great moments was participating in the Penn State Relays where he won metals. He was immensely proud!

Charles continued his education at Cleveland Institute of Technology, RETS Technology, and associates degree from Harford Community College. Charles’ interest was in electronics. For 20 years, he was Morgan State University’s (WEAA radio station) Chief Engineer and often referred to as “MacGyver.” When there were technical difficulties or a station shut down, they could rely on Charles to come to the rescue. Sometimes needed parts were not available, but he would find a way to solve problems and the station back on air. In addition to Morgan State, Charles was employed with Northrup Grumman as a Quality Assurance Technician. He remained there until his retirement in April 2021.

Growing up with three sisters, they would say Charles was just a little too overprotective. He didn’t like guys asking about them. There were times when Charles would say he had no sisters! That did not sit well; however, they appreciated that he cared. Charles was known in the family as the “big kid.” When they all got together, he was the joker, making people laugh. With the kids, they would call Charles their “rich uncle.” He would have them line up and hold out their hands. Then take a wad of money out and lay bills in their hands. That was a big deal; they would go wild! Another joke he would play would be to give everyone a box that looked like gifts and hand them out. As each person opened it, then discover another box within the first. And this would go on until you got to the very last little one. But when opened, you might find tootsies roll pops! They were ready to run him out of the room!

Charles’ pride and joy were that shiny baby blue ’57 chevy with a white convertible top. That car was sharp! He was proud of his car and he pampered it. On weekends, he and his three best friends, Theodore Faison, Billy Wainwright, and Larry Ringgold, would take their girlfriends out cruising. In Charles’ baby blue would be Pam Barner.

When he saw this high stepping, baton twirling majorette who also a cheerleader on the varsity squad, he was hooked. He pursued her and were high school sweethearts. They eventually married. Charles and Pamela had a daughter, Lynette, and son, David. As kids growing up, Charles coached Park & Recreation boys’ and girls’ baseball, and little league football, and took the family on summer vacation.

Each year, Charles looked forward to attending the Jazz Festival. His relaxation was listening to jazz, watching football, and action movies. Charles and Pamela, along with sisters, Jackie and Angie, travelled to many countries. Immediately returning from their trip, vacation plans for the following year were in the works. They especially enjoyed cruising.

In addition to his wife Pamela, Charles is survived by daughter, Lynette Marie Fant-Goodman, and son, David Anthony Fant. Their four grandchildren – Amanda Marie Deller-Manno (Joseph III); Tyler Rashad Epps; Bryce Avery Bailey, and Alexandria Maria Goodman. Four great-grandchildren – Tyler Logan Epps; Joseph Edward Manno IV (Joey); Skyler Sapphire Cree-Epps, and Theo Gabriel Manno. Sisters Angela Harl and Sheila Fant of Columbia, Maryland, and Jacquelyn Herron of Savannah, Texas. Brother and sisters-in law – Felton and Yvonne Barner; Charles and Elaine Darden; Leonard Williams, and Markia Brock. Additional family - Edward and Dena Bailey; Shala Buie, and two generations of nieces and nephews. Charles was predeceased by grandson, Alexander Monroe Goodman.

Also, friendships Charles had over the years were Pop and Paula Harris; George and Eloise Seward; Harry and Belinda Smith, and Reggie McCoy.

Special thanks to the best neighbors ever. Richard and Karen Crist and Chris Myers. Thank you for all you have done for us over the years. 

We are often reminded that the time we have with one another is precious. Therefore, enjoy meaningful moments because you never know when it will all come to an end!