Arnold Wade Charles, Sr., affectionately known as "Hots", 70, of Jennings, Louisiana, entered eternal rest peacefully at his residence on February 18, 2026. He was born on July 29, 1955, in Lafayette, Louisiana, to the late Leonard Charles and Ira Bell Jones-Charles. At an early age, he was baptized at Mount Triumph Baptist Church in Jennings, Louisiana, by the late Reverend Dr. Jeff Peterson.

Arnold was a man of presence — strong in spirit, firm in his ways, and full of personality. He was known for his love of barbecuing, cooking for family and the neighborhood, playing dominoes, enjoying a good game of horseshoes, cheering on the New Orleans Saints, and savoring his catfish dinners on Fridays. He also had a sweet (and cheesy) weakness for his favorite snacks — honey buns and Cheetos Puffs, which he enjoyed just as much as a home-cooked meal. When he felt up to it, he loved working in his garden until his health began to fail. He had a funny, witty side and a loving heart when he wanted to show it, and those who knew him well understood both sides of his nature and loved him for it.

Family was the cornerstone of his life. One of his favorite expressions, "Give me some family love," was more than just words — it was a reflection of how he lived. He valued loyalty, unity, and togetherness, and he made certain that his loved ones always knew how much they meant to him.

Though he is no longer physically with us, his spirit, his wisdom, and his enduring love remain. His life serves as a lasting reminder of the importance of family, connection, and love.

Arnold leaves to cherish his memories, a devoted daughter, Anitra Charles-Allen (Jermaine); his siblings, Anita Simeon (Anthony) and John Charles Sr. (Chandra); his daughter-in-law, Tabitha Murray-Charles; his sister-in-law, Lisa S. Charles; his beloved dog, Lulu, who was his loyal companion; his grandchildren, Altovise Allen, Shemar George, Domanic Gircuard, Aaliyah Allen, Meya Charles, and Benjamin Charles; his great-grandchildren, A'Layna, Briley, Camille, and Sa'Riyah; his godchildren, Torrey Simeon, Charles "Cas" Simeon, Donald "Tito" Boudreaux Jr., and Sebrina Rubin; his lifelong friend, Eddie "Bruiser" Achan; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard Charles and Ira Bell Jones-Charles; his paternal grandparents, Laura and Oliver; his maternal grandparents, Luella and John; his daughter, Altovise Charles; his son, Arnold Wade Charles Jr.; and his brother, Kenneth Ray Charles Sr.

Arnold's legacy of strength, love, and devotion to family will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Visitation with family and friends will be held from 9:00 am - 11:00 am Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Mt. Triumph Baptist Church in Jennings, LA.  Celebration of Life Services will be in the church at 11:00 am with Reverend Dr. Kieran D. Coleman, Pastor officiating.  Burial will follow in the Benevolent Cemetery in Jennings, LA. under the direction of Semien-Lewis Mortuary in Jennings, LA.