Charles Ault Harrington

Charles A. Harrington, 84, of Knoxville, TN, passed away peacefully at his home on May 14, 2025. A devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Charles lived a life that was full of support and enthusiasm for both his family and his community. Charles’ professional journey began at a remarkably young age. He started selling insurance at Harrington Insurance Agency when he was just 16 years old, showing an early passion for the industry. By the age of twenty-five, he achieved the prestigious designation of CPCU-Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter-an accomplishment equivalent to a masters degree in insurance. His expertise and dedication shaped a career built on trust, knowledge, and a commitment to serving others. Charles led an active life. An avid sportsman, he enjoyed fishing, jogging, golf, and baseball. His dedication to Fountain City was evident in his service to organizations such as Kiwanis, where he served many years as a Key Club Zone Chairman, as well as his involvement with Fountain City Town Hall and Fountain City United Methodist Church. Music was another of Charles’ great passions. His talent for percussion began in the Central High School marching band and continued as he played snare drum for the University of Tennessee’s Pride of the Southland Marching Band. His musical journey also led him to perform with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra while attending college at the University of Tennessee, where he earned a degree in business. He was a member of the East Tennessee Concert Band and the Tennessee Wind Symphony-and in 2024 was named to the Tennessee Wind Symphony Hall of Fame as a Distinguished Lifetime Member. Charles was deeply engaged in his community through various organizations, including Toastmasters, Fountain City Sportsmen’s Club, and the Fountain City United Methodist Church Choir. He was also an active member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and a founding member of the Central High School Alumni Association. Charles is preceded in death by his parents, T.R. Harrington Jr. and Chloe A. Harrington, and his beloved wife, Kathleen Hill Harrington. He is survived by his brothers, Thomas Harrington Ill and Richard Harrington of Knoxville, and James Harrington (Sue) of Suwanee, GA; son David C. Harrington (Deb) of Knoxville, daughter Amy H. Bible (Allan) of Knoxville; grandchildren Chris Harrington, Noah Harrington, Charley Rose Bible, and Della Bible; great-grandchildren Carter Harrington and Cason Harrington; and many cherished nieces and nephews. The family wishes to offer special thanks to the following people: ”T” Charles’ dedicated caregiver for over four years, Samantha, Jennifer, Betty, Joe and Senior Home Assistance, whose invaluable support helped keep Charles at his home during his final years. Finally, the family wishes to express their thanks to Suncrest Hospice who treated Charles with dignity and compassion for the last few weeks before his passing. Family will receive friends at Fountain City United Methodist Church from 2:00 – 4:00 pm on Sunday, May 18, 2025; with the service to begin immediately after. Rev. Don Hanshew and Rev. Rachel Collins will officiate. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions in Charles’ honor be made to the Tennessee Wind Symphony Rising Star scholarship fund at: TWS, P.O. Box 1044, Knoxville, TN 37901. Through the Rising Star program, the Tennessee Wind Symphony provides membership to outstanding high school students. These students become full members of the ensemble and perform alongside adult musicians. Graduating senior Rising Stars receive a scholarship opportunity through the TWS Scholarship Fund. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mynattfh.com.