Charles Thomas Mahfouz

In Loving Memory of Charles Thomas Mahfouz

It is with deep love and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Charles Thomas Mahfouz—a devoted husband, father, “Popsie,” coach, and man of unwavering faith—who went home to be with Jesus on June 30, 2025.

Born on January 23, 1953, in Opelousas, Louisiana, Charles was the son of Payne and Edith Mahfouz and grew up alongside his beloved sister, Mary Mahfouz Howard. From an early age, Charles displayed a generous spirit, a fierce work ethic, and a gift for bringing out the best in others—traits that would define his entire life.

For 42 beautiful years, Charles shared a life of love and purpose with his wife, Julie Mahfouz. Their marriage was a true partnership—built on shared faith, deep devotion, and a love that endured every season of life. It was a bond marked not only by joy but also by resilience and a steadfast commitment to their vows. Through challenges and triumphs, they chose each other again and again, creating a home filled with grace, laughter, and unconditional love.

Charles was the proud father of Lauren Mahfouz Morel (married to Derek Morel) and Allie Mahfouz Smith (married to Jake Smith). His greatest joy came in his role as “Popsie” to his treasured grandchildren: Evan, Nathan, Emmie, Vivi, Ava-Kate, Addie, Lily (who preceded him in heaven on May 2, 2013), Evie, Josiah, Bella, and one more grandchild soon to arrive.

To each grandchild, Popsie was a steady and loving presence, offering encouragement, laughter, quiet wisdom, and endless backrubs and hugs. Whether it was sports, theater, dance, or LEGOs, he made his grandchildren’s interests his own—offering not just words of praise but his full attention, presence, and genuine enthusiasm. He didn’t just say “I love you”—he lived it in every choice, every cheer, and every moment spent by their side.

Charles’s career as a track and football coach was marked by excellence, impact, and heart. Over the years, he coached at Eunice High School, Opelousas High School, Westminster Christian Academy, and Teurlings Catholic, guiding his athletes to seven state track titles and multiple district and regional championships. His coaching journey also took him to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he was honored as the Sun Belt Conference Coach of the Year.

Even after stepping away from full-time coaching, he continued offering one-on-one coaching and mentorship, helping young athletes grow in confidence and skill—no matter their sport. Most dear to him was the chance to coach his own grandchildren in flag football, track, and baseball, creating unforgettable memories and passing on lessons of grit, sportsmanship, and heart. He gave his time, energy, and love without hesitation—coaching not for accolades, but out of genuine care. He was always showing up, especially when it was difficult—encouraging others to rise, even as he bore his own private battles with grace.

Charles’s life was marked by resilience—he never gave up, no matter the challenge. He believed in being present, being accountable, and persevering. But beyond resilience, his story was one of redemption—a life transformed by grace, softened by love, and anchored in the hope of Christ. Whether through his quiet strength or his fierce loyalty, he modeled what it meant to grow, to change, and to live a life that honored both God and others.

Above all, Charles was a man of deep and abiding faith. His love for Jesus was the compass that guided his every step. He met life’s joys and sorrows alike with humility, gratitude, and unshakable trust, always putting others before himself and seeking to honor God in all things.

To know Charles was to be known, loved, and seen. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched—through family, coaching, and friendship. He leaves behind a legacy of love, leadership, redemption, and enduring faith, and while our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the hope of heaven, knowing that he is now safely in the arms of his Savior, reunited with those who went before him.

Charles Thomas Mahfouz will be dearly missed—but never forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 19th at 11:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Lafayette, Louisiana. All are welcome to join the family in honoring and remembering a life so beautifully lived.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7