Jonathan Henry Gordon Charles, affectionately known by his loved ones as Lil JonHenry, Johnny Boy, or simply Jon, was born on August 2, 2009, to his devoted parents, Darrick and Tamela.

From the very beginning, Jonathan showed a remarkable determination to live life on his own terms. Although he was originally expected to arrive on October 31, 2009, Jonathan surprised everyone with his early entrance into the world on August 2, 2009, at 11:54 pm, weighing a strong 2 pounds and 13 ounces.

Throughout his earliest days, Jonathan demonstrated resilience and spirit. His grandma Pearl visited him in the NICU every day, praying over him and gently massaging his tiny legs, providing comfort and love during his first challenges. As Jonathan grew, he left an indelible mark on everyone, fortunate enough to meet him.

Jonathan was an active member of Monumental Missionary Baptist Church, where he attended Sunday School, sang with the Youth Choir, served as a Junior Usher, and often led prayer during Youth programs. His faith was profound, and he knew Jesus as his Lord and Savior.

Jonathan's passion for music blossomed early. At McLaurin, he discovered the calming influence of musical instruments and began playing the violin. Upon entering Moore Middle School, he expressed a desire to play the tuba. Though he initially questioned his choice, Jonathan remained steadfast in his decision. His encounter with Mr. Michael Lloyd at South Florence High School reignited his enthusiasm for the tuba, leading him to play the sousaphone for the South Florence Marching Bruins—a feat made even more impressive considering the instrument's height rivaled his own. Jonathan's favorite performances included "Summertime" from the play "Porgy and Bess," "Somewhere in My Memory" from Home Alone, and "This Christmas" by Donnie Hathaway. His joy for music was matched only by his infectious laughter and smile, which lifted the spirits of everyone around him. Jonathan was known for never letting anything keep him down and for ensuring that no one in his presence had a bad day for long.

Jonathan's loving family welcomed him with open arms. Among those lovingly embracing him are his maternal grandmother, Josephine Gordon; paternal grandfather, Henry Charles; maternal aunt, Pauline Jones; and paternal aunts, Margaret Charles, Rose Richburg, Judy Davis, and Patricia Charles.

Left on earth to cherish Jonathan's precious memories that will forever be in their hearts his parents, Darrick and "Tammy" (a name especially meaningful to those closest to Jonny); brothers, Justin, Darrick Jr., Darion, and Caleb; sisters, Tia, Darricka, and Trennedy; paternal grandparents, Pearl and Baris Blakney; maternal grandparents, Rayfield and Jackie Gordon; aunts, Nikki, Shere, and Tonya; uncles, Ray Jr. and Bryant; nephews, Jacob, Jacobi, Khi'ere, Kayvon, Syon, and newborn nephew Ky'miere; nieces, Vaya, Karleigh, and Kamari; and many special cousins, Cierra, Shadaja, Jamere, Connor, Taylor, Charles, Bryson, Victoria, and Brenden. His memory is also cherished by countless family and friends, both near and far, and by his very special friend, Savannah. Jonathan held his cherished gray cat, Gracie Grazielda Charles, close to his heart, lovingly referring to her as his daughter. Jonathan was blessed with a circle of friends who have stood by him since his days in 3K at McLaurin, including members of the South Florence High School Class of 2027: Trey "Twin", Elijah "the tallest little brother", Jacob "tuba brother", Jamiya, Arionne, Skylah, Quintavia, Sania, Triston, Toniyah, Dallas, Madison, Mahogany, and Alysia. The family wishes to recognize all the parents who have poured love into Jonathan and are forever bound by that connection, including his bonus Dad and Mom, Terrell and Shalon Blue, as well as all the moms Shante', Terra, Jessica, ShaDawn, Holly, Rose, Tierra, Chree, Millicent, Deborah, Katrice, Bernice, Shalandra, and Tasha.