Charles John Rocha passed into eternal rest on March 7, 2026, in Picayune, Mississippi, at the age of 81. He was born on November 11, 1944, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Al Simon and Doris Cox Simon.

Charles built a long and respected career with Eastern Airlines, beginning as a mechanic and later rising into management. Earlier in life, he served his country with honor in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He was formerly a parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Opa Locka, Florida, and in later years found a spiritual home at Picayune Baptist Church, where he remained active in both his faith and his community.

Charles lived life with energy and authenticity. He was an avid hunter and outdoorsman, passionate about both firearms and bow hunting, and he valued the quiet discipline of time spent in the woods. He possessed a natural gift for storytelling and a sharp sense of humor that could bring laughter to any gathering. Charles never met a stranger. He connected easily with people and left a lasting impression wherever he went. Above all else, he loved and fiercely protected his family, whom he considered the greatest achievement of his life.

He is survived by his former wife, Consuelito Rocha, his son Charles P. Rocha, his daughter Audrey Smith, and his sister Judy Dyess Smith. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Selena Rocha Sims, Shane Smith, Shawn Smith, Summer Rocha, Gabby Rocha, Finely Rocha, and Colt Rocha, each of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy.

Charles is also remembered by his daughter-in-law Heather Rocha, his son-in-law David Sims, his nephews Larry Dyess, Rodney Dyess, Albert Dyess and his niece Jackie Morenzonie.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris Cox Simon, and his brother, Arnauld Rocha.

Charles leaves behind a legacy of service, loyalty, humor, and unwavering devotion to family. The fields he helped build are still played on, the people he helped still remember, and the family he loved will carry his stories and his spirit forward for generations, forever known as "twisted steel and sex appeal".