Charles L. DeJournette

Charles DeJournette, a life defined by optimism Charles DeJournette was a pioneering real estate developer who approached everyone he met with a winning smile and a sincere interest in the answer to “How are you doing today?” Whenever anyone posed that same question to him, he answered “Fantastic!” Always exhibiting his dependably upbeat attitude, even as his health began to fail. Charles DeJournette died on August 18, 2022, while recovering from surgery at Christian City Skilled Nursing in Union City, Georgia. He was 89, less than a month shy of his 90th birthday. In the 1950s, Charles was one of the first Black people to major in Real Estate at Ohio State University. Early in his career, he was nationally recognized by H.U.D. for his contributions to help peacefully integrate neighborhoods in Norfolk, Virginia. In fact, he was the realtor of choice for Black professionals throughout the area as they sought more spacious housing for their young families. His pleasant personality and attention to their needs won him clients and referrals as his business grew. Charles was born in Alabama but grew up with his paternal grandparents, Ben and Bessie Lewis, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He often said he learned his most valuable life lessons and business skills from his grandfather, whom he lovingly called “Big Daddy.” Charles met and married Jane Tolentino in Norfolk, and their 12-year union produced two daughters and a son. After the marriage ended in divorce, Charles moved to Atlanta in the early 1970s. He became a father to two young sons during his second marriage, to Gloria Blackwell, which lasted for 30 years. Dedicated to his chosen profession, Charles continued to gain notice, earning numerous sales awards as a real estate broker before he expanded to investing in and developing property. In the 1980s, he optioned 200 acres of land in Southwest Atlanta and developed the first primarily black-owned upscale new subdivision in Atlanta, Guilford Forest. Later, he spearheaded the development of Magnolia Circle, a significant senior living community in Decatur, Georgia. Always open to new adventures, Charles traveled to seek investments in St. Lucia West Indies and as far as Bolivia in South America. Additionally, he took vacations with his family throughout the United States, including frequent visits to Hilton Head, S.C., and to countries including Mexico and Caribbean nations. His children fondly remember road trips never failing to go off the beaten path, because their daddy would always spot an interesting byway that might lead to a piece of property worth considering. Charles approached every day with legendary enthusiasm, bold courage to excel, a ready smile, great jokes and funny stories of his life growing up under the tutelage of his grandfather, a successful nightclub and restaurant owner with a scintillating past. Throughout his life, he maintained a buoyancy in the face of all challenges. Holding him in their hearts are his loving children: Batecia Burgess (Walter); Yolanda Barrow (Ray); Jane Roberts (Dave); Charles “Flash” DeJournette Jr.; Daniel D. DeJournette; and Harrison DeJournette. Additionally, he leaves grandchildren Valencia West (Phil); Erica Dukes; and Chelsea Fountain (William); and two great grandchildren. He also leaves to cherish his memory two sisters, Mary Henry Smith and Gail DeJournette. His parents, Charles DeJournette and Amanda Vanderhall, and his sister, Renee DeJournette, predeceased him. A memorial service will be held Thursday, August 25, 2022 at 3 o'clock in the Chapel of Parrott Funeral Home. Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at www.parrottfuneralhome.com. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Thursday at Parrott Funeral Home and Crematory. The family extends gratitude to relatives and friends whose love and support helps us as we mourn our loss and celebrate the life of our father.

Charles L. DeJournette

September 21, 1932 - August 18, 2022