News Summary
Charles L. Middleton, a beloved figure in Parsons, passed away recently at 86. A farmer and dedicated community member, he will be missed by family and friends. His engaging personality touched many lives, from his work at the Kansas State Experiment Station to his passion for antiques. A memorial service is scheduled for June 14, with contributions welcomed in his memory to St. John’s Episcopal Church.
Parsons, Kansas – Charles L. “Charlie” Middleton, a long-time resident of Parsons, passed away on May 29, 2025, at Elmhaven East at the age of 86. His numerous contributions to both family and community will be remembered fondly by those who knew him.
Born on July 28, 1938, in Thayer, Kansas, to John Edward and Viola Mae (Walls) Middleton, Charlie grew up in his hometown and graduated from Thayer High School in 1957. He was married to Elaine Livingston on June 5, 1960, and the couple initially moved to Costa Mesa, California, where he worked at his father-in-law’s service station.
In 1963, Charlie and Elaine returned to Kansas, where he took on a role in bridge construction. By 1965, the family had settled in Mound Valley, where they became active members of the Mound Valley Methodist Church. Charlie continued his career at the Southeast Kansas (Kansas State) Experiment Station until his retirement in 1999. During this time, he also farmed with his brothers on the family farm.
On September 10, 1983, Charlie married Phyllis Raye (Smith) Garland at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Parsons, where he later became a member and was baptized. He was known for his engaging personality, often described as having a “gift of gab,” which made him a familiar face at local auctions and estate sales. Charlie had a passion for collecting antiques, focusing especially on advertising items and oil and gas collectibles.
Surviving him is his wife, Phyllis Middleton, as well as his son, Mark Alan Middleton (Natasha) of Olathe, and his daughter, Diane Michelle Middleton Davis (Douglas) of Parsons. He also leaves behind a stepfamily that includes stepson Dean Douglas Garland (Dianna) of Overland Park and stepdaughter Gina Kaye Garland of Parsons. Charlie was a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren and enjoyed the company of 10 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.
Charlie was preceded in death by his son, Rodney Dean Middleton; daughter, Kim Denise Middleton Orr; three brothers, Robert “Bob” Middleton, John Middleton, and David Middleton; and three sisters, Irene Fender and two infant sisters.
A memorial service honoring Charlie’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, at the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home in Parsons. Following the service, Charlie will be laid to rest at Harmony Grove Cemetery in rural Dennis. Family and friends are invited to gather from 9:30 a.m. until the service begins.
Those wishing to honor Charlie’s memory may make contributions to St. John’s Episcopal Church. Memorial donations can be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS, 67357. Online condolences can be shared at www.forbeshoffman.com.
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