Published on January 15, 2026 3:44 pm
Last Updated on January 15, 2026 3:47 pm
Brian Tewell Doty, 79, of Charleston, IL passed away at 7:29 am on Sunday January 11, 2026, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center.
There will be a celebration of life held on Sunday January 25, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Charleston High School Auditorium. Friends and family may enter from the Baker Gym doors. Burial with Military Rites will be held at a later date in the Roselawn Cemetery, in Charleston.
Brian was born on September 15, 1946, in Charleston, IL to Ernest and Evelyn Ruth (Tewell) Doty. Survivors include his children Andrea Doty, Allison Doty, and Brian (Jessica) Doty; grandchildren Evelyn and Wesley Doty; five grand fur babies; and sister Sue (Doty) Bennett.
Brian served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1970. He served first on the aircraft carrier USS Bonhomme Richard and then on the frigate USS Sample. After returning from the war, he worked in the auto parts business, managing several different stores over the years. After leaving the auto parts business in 1997, he spent the next 23 years working as a custodian for the Charleston School District. He retired in 2020 as the head custodian for the Charleston High School. Brian was also a lifelong member at the Charleston VFW Post 1592.
Brian loved his family and his friends. He was best described as loyal, honorable, honest, and trustworthy. He was the type of person who would drop whatever he was doing to help someone else and constantly elevated the problems of others over his own. Even in the worst of times, he never lost his sense of humor. He could always be counted on to crack wise at the most opportune time. He loved classic cars and proudly displayed pictures of the various sports cars he owned over the years. He enjoyed collecting and setting up model train displays in his basement. He was proud of his time in the U.S Navy and would happily regale anyone with stories from his time in the service. Most recently, he was enjoying being a grandfather and spoiling his granddaughter with cookies and treats.
Memorials can be made to: Jim Beams Corner Cattery: 18086 N US. Highway 45, Effingham, IL 62401
Online condolences can be expressed at www.barkleyfuneralchapels.com