Charles William Lindley

Charles William “Charlie” Lindley, 75, of Paoli, Indiana, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2026.

Charlie was born on February 26, 1951, to Stanley Layne Lindley and Thelma Louis (Cole) Lindley. He was born and raised on the historic homestead family farm just west of Paoli, a place he loved deeply and where he was happiest. It was there that he built a wonderful life surrounded by the land, the animals, and the people he loved.

On December 17, 1976, Charlie married the love of his life, Doris Jane (Hill) Lindley. Together, they shared nearly 50 years of marriage and built a life centered around family, faith, hard work, and love.

A lifelong member of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), Charlie faithfully attended Lick Creek Friends Church. His faith was an important part of his life and was reflected in his quiet, humble nature and the way he cared for others.

In his younger years Charlie was an outstanding track and cross country runner, setting many high school and college records. After graduating from Paoli High School, Charlie continued his education at Vincennes University and Western Kentucky University. A man who could make or fix just about anything, he became a master carpenter and loved working with his hands. He was especially proud to have been a major part of the skilled team of craftsmen who helped restore the historic West Baden Springs Dome Hotel. Later in life, Charlie enjoyed working as a manager at the Paoli Airport and also serving others as a driver for Older Americans.

Charlie had a love of flying. On many a calm evening, he could be found in one of his ultralight airplanes, enjoying the Lord’s creation as he flew over the Paoli and Orange County area. Flying brought him a special sense of freedom and joy.

A humble and quiet man, Charlie found happiness in the simple things. He delighted in being on the farm where he was born and raised and spent countless hours caring for and enjoying the animals around him, including his chickens and cats. He had a gentle way about him and never sought attention for himself.

But most of all, Charlie deeply loved his family. He was a man who always put others first, giving of himself without hesitation and finding joy in the happiness of those he loved. His devotion to his family was evident in all that he did, and his love will continue to be felt through the generations.

Charlie will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Jane Lindley of Paoli; his daughter, Victoria Allstott (Chris) of West Baden; his son, Laban Lindley (Cori) of New Palestine, Indiana; his brothers, Layne Lindley (Martha) of Washington, Indiana, Mark Lindley of Paoli, Jonathan “Brax” Lindley of Indianapolis; and his sister, Nancy Hawkins (Dale) of Kokomo, Indiana.

He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren and a great-grandfather to seven great-grandchildren.

Charlie leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, craftsmanship, humility, and devotion to family. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his willingness to help others, his love of the farm and the skies above it, and the countless ways he put those he loved before himself.

His passing leaves a space that cannot be filled, but the life he lived and the love he gave will remain in the hearts of his family and all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitation will be held at McAdams Mortuary on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, between 11 am – 1 pm, with service starting at 1 pm. Interment will follow at Paoli Community Cemetery. For condolences visit mcadamsmortuary.com