Love, kindness, caring, creative, adventurous
Charlie “Chuckles” DiGloria was a man with a heart of gold, known for his ability to make anyone smile or laugh, no matter how bad their day was going. He was a family man, deeply devoted to his loved ones, especially his nephew Jack, whom he adored. He also loved Thanksgiving and St. Patrick’s Day – mostly for the food!!
Charlie had a passion for sports, particularly for playing basketball, and was an avid fan of the Red Sox, Patriots, and Celtics. He also had a unique interest in sneakers. He drew his own sneaker designs, collected Jordans, and dreamed of starting his own sneaker business one day. Big-hearted, Charlie would sometimes give away a pair of sneakers from his collection and purchase meals and warm clothing from thrift stores for people he didn’t even know.
A limo driver for the business his parents, Mike, and Debbie owned, Charlie also had two brothers, Mike, and Andrew. They enjoyed going to cookouts, camping, and spending hours on the basketball court together. He treated his beloved cats, Pete, and Siren, as if they were his children.
In addition to his many positive qualities, Charlie struggled with addiction for 20 years, which took a toll on his life and relationships. His disease changed him, causing him to become depressed, angry, and isolated. He cut himself off from friends and family, and his work ethic suffered.
Charlie’s addiction also had a profound impact on his family. The comedic Charlie, who made everyone laugh and smile, was no longer present. His mother, Debbie, remembers the pain of watching him destroy the person he once was. His mother felt protective of Charlie as he had been a premature baby and later experienced some childhood trauma. This dynamic caused tension and conflict within the family.
Tragically, Charlie passed away at the age of 42. His mother misses his smile, hugs, everyday phone calls, and text messages. She now supports an organization that helps people with substance use disorders, hoping it will make a difference in their lives.
Charlie’s mother, Debbie DiGloria, provided the information for this narrative.
February 28, 1981-September 7, 2023-Age 42
Portrait Artist: Shawn Faust
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois
