Captain (Ret.) Charles Jesse Fincher

Captain (Ret.) Charles Jesse Fincher was born on January 15, 1937, in Union, South Carolina, to Jesse Fincher and Elsie Hughes, both of whom predeceased him. Charlie graduated from Sims High School in 1954. His introduction to the band in high school sparked a passion for music, leading him to enroll at South Carolina State University in September 1954. He cherished his time there, participating in the band and ROTC. In 1958, Charlie earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and was commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant Infantry Officer.

On December 23, 1961, Charlie married Janet Louise Edwards in Spartanburg, South Carolina. His service of over eight years in the United States Army took him to Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Dix, New Jersey; Pirmasens, Germany; and Boston, Massachusetts, ultimately achieving the rank of Captain. From 1964 to 1967, he served as an Assistant Professor of Military Science, teaching ROTC at Northeastern University in Boston, where he was recognized for his meritorious service. Both Charlie and Janet obtained their master’s degrees from Northeastern University. In 1967, he retired from the US Army and received an Honorable Discharge.

Following their move to Atlanta, Georgia, Charlie's entrepreneurial spirit, influenced by his father's success, flourished. He made history as the first black individual to sell office products for IBM in the southeast, a career that spanned 14 successful years. In 1985, he realized his vision by founding Red Sea Office Supply in Dallas. The name was chosen to symbolize divine deliverance, a theme that resonated deeply with him. As Chief Executive Officer, Captain Fincher dedicated himself to his business daily for 40 years.

Charlie was deeply devoted to his faith and actively involved in his Dallas churches. He served as a choir member and deacon at New Hope Baptist Church and later as a faithful deacon at North Dallas Bible Community Fellowship Church.

He held a special place in his heart for his alma mater, South Carolina State University, and generously supported the institution through significant contributions. His leisure pursuits included watching NFL games, following the stock market, and exercising regularly. A steadfast believer in Jesus Christ, he found solace in Christian music and Bible study, engaging thoughtfully with his Sunday School classmates. His lifelong passion for the clarinet, which began in school, continued to bring him joy through performances with orchestras and ensembles, as well as in the simple pleasure of playing at home.

Charlie was a proud member of the South Carolina State University National Alumni Association (Dallas/Fort Worth Alumni Chapter) and a life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. with 69 years of service.

He peacefully passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025, and will be remembered by all who knew him as a tenacious, spirited, God-fearing, dedicated, and faithful friend.

His memory will be cherished by his wife of 63 years, Janet Edwards Fincher of Dallas, Texas; his daughters, Jennifer Walters (Robert) of Dallas, Texas, and Wendy Traylor (Steven) of Houston, Texas; and his four grandchildren: Dalton Walters, Jordan Walters, Chloe Traylor, and Zachary Traylor. He also leaves behind numerous cousins, relatives, and friends who loved him dearly.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Captain (Ret.) Charles Jesse Fincher, please visit our floral store.