Charles Auldridge

On July 6, 2025, Charles “Bill” William Auldridge Jr. journeyed home and was welcomed into the loving arms of his beloved wife of 58 years, Sharon, his son, Mark Allan Auldridge, and his grandparents he held so dear, Granny and Pop.

He leaves behind a legacy built on quiet strength and enduring devotion. His daughter, Cassandra Auldridge of Waco; granddaughter, Stefani, and her husband, Keith LeBlanc of Hewitt; great-grandchildren, Dezaraye, Gavin, and Eva LeBlanc who carry his love of art, love for fishing, and goofy spirit. Also mourning his passing are granddaughter Chelsea Campos of Waco, great- grandson Anthony Campos, great- granddaughter Olivia Lopez, great- grandson Oscar Lopez who carry forward his love of sport, his flair for performing, and his humorous nature. and granddaughter Maiana Auldridge of Waco. His love also remains with his brother Danny and wife Margie Wilson of Granbury, Texas, and his sister Sherry and husband Ken O’Brien of Keller, Texas, along with several nieces and nephews.

Bill’s story began with a boyhood filled with horses and parades, inspired by his Pop, a proud Shriner. His youth was marked with adventure and a touch of rebellion—tales of train hopping, getting stranded in Oklahoma, and racing down Texas roads in his “hot rod” are now family legend.

His wild-hearted youth eventually gave way to something steadier, deeper—when he laid eyes on Sharon. It didn’t take long for love to settle in. What began as a spark quickly became a lifelong flame. Together, they built 58 years of shared laughter, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion. Two children came from their union, both adored with every fiber of his being. Bill was a provider in the truest sense. He worked every day, never took a vacation, and bore the weight of responsibility with humility and pride. His only regret, spoken softly in his later years, was wishing he had spent more time with family. But those who knew him best understood—Bill loved in the language of action. He gave everything he had to ensure Sharon, Mark, and Sandy had the best life he could offer.

He dedicated 63 years of service to American Amicable Life Insurance, becoming not just a loyal employee but a memorable presence known for his charisma, loyalty, and legendary Elvis impressions. He worked alongside people he cherished—Wanda, Kathy, Marie, Charles, Grayling, Jeff, Earline, Kim, Mark, Don, Kari, Janette, Tina, Lanny—and many others whose names may slip memory but never heart.

His passing leaves a deep ache, but we find peace in knowing he is whole again. We like to imagine him reunited with Sharon and Mark—perhaps sitting by the water’s edge with a fishing pole in hand, humming a doo-wop tune, free at last from all pain of body or mind.

Bill was one of the good ones—steady, loyal, loving in his own quiet way. His absence will be felt deeply, but his presence… his presence will echo always in the stories, the laughter, and the lives he touched.

Rest easy, Pop. You’re finally home.

A visitation for Bill is scheduled for 6:00-8:00 P.M., Monday, July 14, 2025 at OakCrest Funeral Home.  Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at OakCrest Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Wible officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Waco.