Charles Phillip Slavin

Charles Phillip Slavin, 80, of Mineral Wells, Texas, passed away on August 23, 2026, surrounded by his children, at the time of his passing.

Charles was born August 29, 1945, and graduated from Clarendon High School in 1963. Upon high school graduation, Charles joined the United States Navy in August 1963 and served during the Vietnam war aboard ships carrying troops and supplies. After his military service, Charles returned home and attended Clarendon College. Charles worked most of his professional career in commercial and residential construction waterproofing commercial buildings and remodeling, roofing and constructing homes in Clarendon, Houston, Garland and other areas of Texas. In retirement, Charles settled in Mineral Wells, Texas, where he enjoyed fishing, playing bridge, taking part in community activities, and spending time with his beloved dog, Gus.

Charles was an excellent builder, cook, chess player and card player. He loved playing games with his family and friends and hosting family reunions. Charles is also remembered for his intelligence, quick wit and his ability to make others laugh. One of many stories comes to mind that pretty much sums up Charles’ never-ending playful side.

During the early 1980s, Charles would begin each morning having coffee with his parents, Madeline and Clyde Slavin, before heading off to work for the day. One summer, Charles had scheduled vasectomy surgery, and he spent the prior week during his coffee time with his parents, lamenting all the remote possible unpleasant side effects he could experience from the surgery. The day after the surgery the following week, Charles came to his parents’ house, slowly walked to the chair at the breakfast counter, sat down and began to sip his coffee without looking at anyone or saying a word. Madeline finally asked: “Well how did it go?” Charles set down his coffee, and in a high-pitched squeaky voice said: “I think it went pretty well!” That was Charles. We will miss him terribly.

His daughter Debra adds this message to her dad: “I will treasure the moments I had with you. We both enjoyed fishing, playing games, family reunions–you will be missed. I will hold you in my heart, I have comfort knowing you are with the angels.”

Charles was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Slavin; his mother, Madeline Slavin; and his sister, Ann Slavin Ray. Charles is survived by his children, Debra Slavin Hynes, Kelly May and Charles Slavin; his six grandchildren, Lauren Keena, Bryan Hynes, John Hynes, Apsley May, Truman May, and Keiran Slavin and his brothers, Ken Slavin and Patrick Slavin.

In keeping with his wishes, Charles donated his remains to science. Following a two-year period, he will be laid to rest at the Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery.