The Roberto Clemente Middle School community in Germantown is mourning the loss of longtime Building Service employee Charles “Charlie” Ellison Jr., a familiar and deeply respected presence at the school for decades. Ellison passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at his home in Germantown. He was 70 years old.
A Montgomery County native, Ellison was born on August 22, 1955, in Olney and educated in Montgomery County Public Schools, graduating from Sherwood High School in 1973. After working several jobs, he began his career with MCPS in the late 1990s at Roberto Clemente Middle School, where he served as a Building Service Worker for more than 28 years.
At Clemente, Ellison was known as a hard-working and dedicated employee who took great pride in his work. Colleagues, students, and staff respected him for his strong work ethic and reliability, and many considered him a cornerstone of the school community. For generations of students and staff, Charles was a constant, friendly presence who helped keep the school running day in and day out.
Beyond his work, Ellison was remembered as kind-hearted, generous, and deeply caring. He lived a simple and straightforward life, appreciating what he had and always willing to lend a helping hand. He was known for his warm, affectionate smile and the way he made people feel welcome just by being himself.
Family was at the center of Ellison’s life. He was a devoted husband to his wife Sharon, whom he affectionately referred to as his Queen, and a proud father and grandfather. He loved spending time at home, listening to “oldies but goodies,” watching classic westerns and The Andy Griffith Show, and cheering on his beloved Washington Commanders. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, and dominos.
As news of his passing spreads, the Roberto Clemente Middle School community is remembering Charles Ellison not only for his decades of service, but for the kindness, consistency, and care he showed every day. His loss is being felt deeply by those who worked alongside him and by the many people whose lives he touched over nearly three decades at the school. The full obituary can be seen here.
