May 26, 1952 — Jul 10, 2026
Charles R. Arthur Jr., of Reading, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10th, 2026, with his family by his side. He was 74 years of age.
Charlie is the beloved husband of Maria (Macdonald) Arthur. He is the cherished father of Charles “CJ” R. Arthur III, Alexander “Alex” Philip Arthur, and Victoria “Vicki” Michelle Lemaitre and her husband, Mike. Loving Grampy of Louis Jessy and Léo Charles Lemaitre. Son of the late Rena (Doucette) and Charles “Randy” Arthur Sr. Dear brother of Nancy Freitas and her husband John, Cheryl Storti and her fiancé Dave Lautman, and Lisa Gilligan and her husband Larry. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
A lifelong resident of Reading, he built a life centered on family, friendship, and the community he loved, always grateful to be just minutes away from his three sisters and their families. He cherished the time he spent with his father, Randy, creating memories together that he carried with him throughout his life.
A graduate of Suffolk Law School, he enjoyed a distinguished career as a practicing attorney for more than 40 years, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike. After retirement, he fulfilled one of his lifelong bucket list dreams by becoming a blackjack dealer at the Encore Casino, embracing the role with his signature charm and enthusiasm.
He found joy in life’s simple pleasures—taking scenic drives that often ended at a favorite clam shack, creating treasured family memories on vacations to Disney World and Key West, and spending countless hours on the fairways of Bear Hill Golf Club, where he was a longtime member and enjoyed many memorable golf trips with friends. A gifted storyteller, he could captivate anyone willing to listen with his warmth, wit, and endless collection of tales. Sunday afternoons were reserved for cheering on the Patriots with Tommy, the family dog, curled up beside him, while Thanksgiving mornings became a favorite family tradition as he prepared his unmatched pancakes and home fries for everyone gathered. His kindness, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family and all those he loved will be remembered always.
Funeral from the Doherty Barile Family Funeral Home 11 Linden St. READING on Friday July 17th, 2026 at 9 am followed by a Graveside Service Celebrating Charlie’s Eternal Life in Woodend Cemetery Franklin St. Reading at 10 am.
Family and friends are kindly invited to gather and share memories with the family on Thursday July 16th, 2026 from 4 pm to 8 pm. Parking attendants and elevator available.
Please consider donations in memory of Charlie to the National Kidney Foundation by visiting https://www.kidney.org/
