Charles Norman Small, Sr., 82, of Owensboro, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at his home. He was born February 25, 1944 in Louisville to the late Frances Audrey Bell Small and Arthur “Ike” Small, Sr. Charlie retired from Commonwealth Aluminum. After retirement, he worked part-time at Kings Pharmacy and enjoyed being a casino card dealer. Charlie had a contagious smile and a laugh like no other. He could always make you laugh and had some of the funniest one-liners. He loved French Vanilla cappuccinos. He was a lover of music and was a talented guitar player, could even carry a tune. With his swoon moves he would float Gerri, his wife, across the dance floor while they were in dance competitions and he even taught line dancing. Charlie loved playing cards and traveling to new places. But most of all, he loved his family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Arthur Small, Jr., Virginia Millay, Danny Small, Sr., Ronny Small, and Donny Small.
He is survived by his wife, Geraldine “Gerri” Humphrey Small; children, Debbie Garber (Gary), Charley Small (Kathy), Leslie Small, Shad Combs (Michelle), and Travis Small (Charity); 13 grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; siblings, Fran Brookshire, Rose Marie Small-Cobb, and Bill Small; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026 at James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory. Visitation is from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Rosehill Cemetery at a later date.