Charlotte Anne Covington went to her eternal rest early Sunday morning January 3, 2021. Born on August 17, 1944, she was a lifelong resident of Hampton, graduating from Hampton High School in 1962 and then working as a secretary at Ft. Monroe until her retirement in 1992. She spent a year in Vietnam during 1971-72 providing her clerical expertise wherever it was needed.

She was a member of Wythe Parkway Baptist Church and Ivy Memorial Baptist Church where her love for children lead her to teach a primary class for several years.

Charlotte was known by all for her abundant love and giving personality, especially toward children.  As her retirement approached, she desired to love, care for, and support children as a "Nana". Over her remaining years she was able to pour into the lives of eight children from four families, loving them and receiving love in return. Those that benefited from her care are Rachel, Diana, William, and Brian Fithian; Julia Dickseski; Dale and Drake Mancil (nephews); and Jacob Gray (great nephew).

Upon learning of her passing, three of these put down in words some thoughts about Charlotte that express the impact she had on their lives and represents the impact she had on the lives of so many others:

"Many of us are wondering the earth seeking to be understood.  So, while we desire to be seen and crave to be heard, we are so scared of the thought of someone seeing us for who we truly are, all of our flaws, and our imperfections. I am luckier than most because I have had someone understand and accept me for who I am from a very young age. My childhood Nanny and forever friend, Charlotte, was an additional maternal figure in my life who was an angel, an old soul in physical form who was simply too good for this planet. Charlotte demonstrated everything most of us have ever wanted from someone. She loved me and always validated my experiences. She knew who I was and could handle all of my frequent changing moods. She was my safe haven. Someone who effortlessly understood and accepted me without having to explain or change myself to fit the mold others expected me to become. Our conversations were full of depth, meaning, spirituality, and intellect. Growing up with her was magical. I was an imaginative, creative, introverted only child who saw the world in a different light, and so did she, so she made my life that much more beautiful. And I am forever grateful." ~  Julia Dickseski

"The world lost an amazing person, my Aunt Charlotte passed away. She was truly a saint, a giver. She was the best aunt/mother to not just myself, but so many, and always there for her family. She never looked for anything in return. I'm honored to have had her in my life and be able to share the memories I have with her. I love you Aunt Charlotte and will miss you so very much."  ~  Dale Mancil

"Aunt Charlotte, you showed so much mercy, love and kindness to not only me but complete strangers you met along the way. You are my second mother and my rock, you took care of me at my lowest of lows and my highest of highs. You have given me so much in life and I'm so sorry I won't be able to pay you back. I'm gonna miss all the jokes, laughs and tears we shared over the years. I'm gonna miss hearing you sing and miss all the little things you did that I thought were embarrassing but they were just extra reasons why I love you. I don't want this to be a goodbye but rather I'll see you later. You always said "what would I do without you" but now I'm saying what am I going to do without you. I love you so very, very much and I'm gonna miss you more than you'll ever know. Thank you for everything you have done for me, Dale, Julia, and Jacob.  We were your kids then, now, and forever. I love you aunt Charlotte.    ~  Drake Mancil

Charlotte was preceded in death by her father,  Edward W. Covington, Jr. and her mother,  Charlotte H. Covington. She is survived by her brother,  Sandy Covington, sister , Susan Mancil (Charles), and many cousins, nephews, and nieces.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, January 12 at 3:00 pm at R. Hayden Smith at 245 South Armistead Ave., Hampton.  The service can be viewed lived by CLICK HERE or visiting the funeral home Facebook page.