Charles LeRoy Herrington

Charles LeRoy Herrington, 82, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on March 27, 2026.

Charles was born on June 13, 1943, in Wichita, Kansas, to Helen C. Johnston and Charles A. Herrington. He proudly served his country in the United States Army in the Vietnam War.

On March 15, 1969, Charles married the love of his life, Louise Carrol Dietsch, in Russell, Kansas. Together, they built a life focused on family and shared 56 years of marriage.

Charles dedicated 30 years of his career to Cessna Aircraft before retiring in October 2002. He was known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and pride in everything he did, whether at work, in his yard, or caring for those around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen C. VanCleave and Charles A. Herrington, and his brother, Mark A. Herrington.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Louise C. Herrington; his two daughters, Jill Taylor (Scott) and Shelley Herrington; and his four grandchildren, Victor Tyree Tuggle, Corina Leanne Tuggle, Jacob Michael Taylor (Hannah), and Emma Ruqin Grace Taylor, all of whom he adored deeply.

Charles was a man who never missed a moment that mattered. Whether it was a concert, play, basketball game, baseball game, football game, or cheer competition, he was there. He loved Sunday family meals, time spent splashing in the pool, driving his boat with a kid in tow, and taking pride in having the most beautiful yard and the cleanest cars in the neighborhood. He never met a stranger and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. As a father, he taught his children the things that matter most, how to care for people, how to love deeply, and how to live with patience and kindness. He also made sure they knew the practical things too: how to drive a car, read a map, pitch a tent, start a fire for s’mores, and even how to ski. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and their memories reflect the love he poured into each of them.

Emma shared, “You’ve been there for me my entire life, always supporting me and loving to watch me do my thing. Even if you didn’t quite understand cheer, you still enjoyed every moment of watching me out there, and that meant so much to me. I’ll always cherish the little things we shared, getting fish filets and fries from McDonald’s, going to the movies and enjoying Junior Mints, and all the fun times we had at the lake, especially when you taught me how to do squats. You made sure I understood how important school was, and you were always proud of me and my accomplishments. Most importantly, you taught me what it means to love family unconditionally and to appreciate every little moment in life. You showed me how to be silly and not take things too seriously. I look up to you, and I will carry everything you taught me with me for the rest of my life. Thank you for everything. I love you, Grandpa.”

Jacob shared, “I’m not sure if it was baseball you loved most, or simply watching your grandson do what he loved, but I always knew I could count on you being there. No matter the distance, even if it meant traveling to the middle of nowhere in Kansas. You taught me to take pride in the little things and to chase excellence in the things that truly matter to me. Family was always your foundation, and I never had to question whether you’d be there for me, even when I was a young, dumb kid trying to figure things out. Your steady support meant more than I ever put into words as I chased my dreams. You set the standard for what it looks like to love your spouse well and to keep family first, no matter what. I don’t know where I’d be without your love, your example, and your influence in my life. Thank you for being the best grandpa I could ever ask for. We love you so much.”

Tyree shared, “To the sweetest man I have ever known, thank you for showing me what it means to be a man. Through your actions and the stories you shared, you taught me more than words ever could. I am not filled with regret, but with deep gratitude for being one of your four grandchildren. I only hope to lead my family one day with the same steadfast strength you showed. You will be deeply missed, Grandpa.”

Charles’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and a life well-lived alongside those he cared for most.

A memorial has been established with Compassion Within Hospice, 236 S. Topeka Ave., Wichita, KS 67202.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Abby, Teresa, and Deanna for the compassionate care they provided in his final days, ensuring he was treated with dignity, honor, and respect.

A come and go gathering of friends and family will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Auburn Hills at the Courtyards Clubhouse, 13360 Montecito, Wichita, Kansas. All who knew and loved Charles are invited to come and share memories as we celebrate his life.