The Scioto Foundation has announced the establishment of the new Charles L. Queen Memorial Scholarship Fund set up by his wife, Nina, and sons, Charles (Chuck) and Seth, to honor a man who dedicated his life to service and helped anyone in need.
To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must be a graduating senior at South Webster High School with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0. Eligible applicants should demonstrate community service and participation in extra-curricular activities such as scouting, church, and other service-oriented organizations. Students must pursue four-year degrees or certification in areas related to environmental sciences, engineering, public health, and other disciplines or be enrolled in accredited water technician trade schools.
The Charles L. Queen Memorial Scholarship is dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals in the fields of environmental sustainability, water resource management, and community infrastructure. Charles L. Queen was a passionate and well-loved man lauded for his knowledge, instruction, and dedication throughout the state of Ohio for his 50-year career within the water industry.
The goal of the scholarship is to reduce financial barriers for motivated students who are passionate about preserving clean water, advancing sustainable practices, and strengthening public health systems. Whether pursuing a four-year degree or hands-on technical training, recipients of the Charles L. Queen Memorial Scholarship demonstrate academic potential, a commitment to service, and a vision for making a meaningful impact in their communities.
By investing in academic and vocational education, the Charles L. Queen Memorial Scholarship fosters a well-rounded and skilled workforce ready to undertake critical water and environmental infrastructure challenges and continues the spirit of hard work and dedication that Charles possessed.
Charles L. Queen passed away at Southern Ohio Medical Center at age 70 on Saturday April 5, 2025. Born on June 22, 1954, he was the third son of the late John Edward and Ada (Roof) Queen. Charles attended Vernon Elementary School and Bloom Local High School (South Webster) where he served as president of the class of 1972. He was known for his leadership, kindness, and humor.
Charles was mistaken for Santa Claus many times and always wore a red hat during the Christmas holidays. His greatest joy lay in his love of his family and a strong desire to improve the lives of children.
Charles’ most admirable quality was the ability to assume a leadership role with logical pragmatism and work with others to accomplish important goals.
Charles served over 40 years as president and vice-president of the Board of Education in Bloom-Vernon Local School District. He was employed at Gallia County Rural Water Association and completed 50 years of service in the water filtration and distribution industry. He attained a Class IV Water Treatment license which is the highest level in the state of Ohio. Charles also received the Systems Specialist of the Year Award and Operator of the Year Award several times during his career.
He was a United Methodist Church member, teacher, and trustee; a member of the South Webster High School Hall of Fame, education, community service, and government; an instructor, president, vice president, and trustee of the Operator Training Committee of Ohio; a cubmaster, scoutmaster, trainer, and camp director of the Boy Scouts of America; a member of the Lions Club; and a member of the Vernon Township Fire and Rescue Departments.
“Because of his everyman demeanor, many people were unaware of the brilliant intellect that shaped and informed his decision-making,” said his obituary. “We all want to change the world, and Charlie endeavored to add value to the lives of all who knew him.”
Charles and Nina (Russell), whom he married in 1973, are the parents of Charles Russell Queen (Abbey) of Portsmouth and Seth Benjamin Queen (Melissa) of Bainbridge, Ohio. They are the grandparents of Teagen, Trevor, and Lorelai.
Additional information about the Charles L. Queen Memorial Scholarship Fund or the many other scholarship funds invested at the Scioto Foundation may be obtained by contacting Patty Tennant or Ginnie Moore at the Scioto Foundation, 311 Chillicothe Street, Portsmouth, Ohio or at (740) 354-4612.