Charles C. Harless

Charles C. Harless, 83, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025 in the Alice, Texas home that he built and spent most of his adult life. He was surrounded by his family members and loved ones during his final days.

Charles was born on December 5, 1941, in Kenedy, Texas, to parents Walter Harless and Olivia Fairchild Harless. He married his high school sweetheart, Jeannine, with whom he had three children; in spite of their separation, they remained amicable and deeply committed to their children until her death. He moved to Alice in 1966 as a Texas DPS trooper, continuing in that role for several years. An avid Renaissance man, he went on to own the K&N Drive Inn, the Princess Drive Inn and Dena’s Restaurant for over 40 years, leaving an indelible mark on the food service community of Alice. Among his many successes as a rancher and hunter, Charles also served the Jim Wells County community as Sheriff for three years, from 1978-1980. A true cowboy at heart, Charles dedicated himself to a life of service for his family and the community at large. His was an extraordinary, adventurous and compassionate life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Olivia; the mother of his children, Jeannine; all eight of his siblings – Norbert “Buddy,” Walter M., Mary, Jeff, Aileen “Deanie,” Harvey, James and Connie; and his beloved son, Aaron Craig Harless. He is survived by two children, Darren and Michelle, and 10 grandchildren: Logan, Megan, Madison, MiaRose, Fei, Steven, Jason, Tracy, Hunter and Evan. He lived to see the births of two great-grandchildren, Saylor and Finn, who were by his side during his last days.

The Harless family would like to thank the Alice community for their outpouring of support and love for Charles during his final weeks – you would be hard-pressed to find a family in Alice that did not know, work with or was affected by Charles. He was a stubborn, tough man who loved those around him deeply. Countless people’s lives were touched by his acts of charity, and he devoted his life to helping the less fortunate with opportunities, love, mentorship and shelter. In addition to his family, his memory will be carried by the multitude of children that he took into his home and cared for throughout his life.

Public Visitation will be on Saturday August 16, 2025 at Holmgreen Mortuary 2061 E. Main St. Alice, Texas from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. A Chapel Service at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at the Harless Family Cemetery at the Harless Ranch in Alice, Texas.

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