Charles William Ferst III

September 24, 1945 - May 20, 2022

Charles William Ferst III, 76, of Maryville, TN, went to be with the Lord on May 20, 2022. He was born September 24, 1945, in Brooklyn, NY. Known by many as Charlie, he will be remembered for his witty humor and his kindness while embracing his entrepreneurial spirit. Charlie was still working at Strata Environmental, as the founder and CEO, while also taking time to attend events and enjoy the campus of his alma mater, Virginia Tech. He was a long-time member of First United Methodist Church and loved worshiping God through his gift of music. Being “Papa” was probably his most enjoyable and rewarding role, and bedtime stories were his specialty. It was a life well lived. Many will remember Charlie/Dad/Papa as a mentor, father figure, and a lasting influence in their life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Dorothy Ferst, and his wife and soulmate, Pamela Bates Ferst. He is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law Jennifer "Jennie" and Kevin Parr of Maryville, TN and Christa and Kevin Honaker of Blacksburg, VA; five grandchildren that were his pride and joy, Charles, Madeline, Gretchen, Jacob, and Martin; brother and sister-in-law Glenn and Candy Ferst; sisters and brothers-in-law Ellen and Gary Turnquist and Doris and Steve Horton; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Bob and Joy Bates; best friends Bo and Pam Taran; and extended family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Maryville Christian School, the music ministry at Maryville First United Methodist Church, or the Blacksburg High School band. The graveside service will take place at Laurel Springs Farm family cemetery in Meadows of Dan, VA at 3:00 pm, Thursday, June 2, 2022 where family will receive friends one hour before the service.