Mrs. Charlene Willke, 68, wife of Erick Peter Willke and a resident of Nassawadox, passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at her home.
A native of Chelsea, Mass., Charlene was born on Feb. 14, 1958, to Ellis Jay Tilley, of Chelsea, and the late Catherine Tasha Tilley.
Charlene is lovingly remembered and survived by her husband, Erick; her father, Ellis; her children, David and Miranda Poto, Catherine Poto and Oliver Ordonñez, Gina and Josh Alvarado, James Poto, Ericka and Matt Smuck, and Megan Willke; her sister, Christine Tilley; and her brother, Ellis Tilley.
Charlene was a big personality with a fiery spirit that matched her red hair. She was courageous, inspirational, loving, funny, and a ball of energy that showed what can be accomplished with determination and persistence. She lived her life to the fullest despite her many challenges.
Her passions included traveling, cooking, crocheting, and shopping. Her greatest accomplishment was her family. She raised seven kids and enjoyed time with her grandchildren, Nathan, Landon, Brody, Everett, Connor, Dominic, Giuliana, Alex, Ainsley, Gabby, Abby, Lily, and Ellyana.
In addition to her mother, Charlene was predeceased by James Tilley and Alexis Alvarado.
Charlene’s celebration of life service will be held Saturday, June 6, at 4 p.m., at the Exmore Moose Lodge. It is open to all those whose lives she impacted. To help celebrate Charlene, attendees are invited to bring a photo for the memorial table.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.doughtyfuneralhome.com
Arrangements were made by Doughty Funeral Home in Exmore.
