Charles Lawrence Leist Jr., 68, of Winnsboro, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2019 in Pittsburg, Texas.  He was born in Vicksburg Jan. 25, 1951, to Charles Lawrence Leist, Sr. and Ruth Bryan Leist. 

Charles graduated from Riverside High School in Parsons, Tenn., in 1969.  He spent some time attending Austin Peay University in Memphis. Professionally, he was self-employed as a mechanical engineer.

Charles was a skilled bull rider, doing so professionally for a time.  He raised horses and hunting dogs, and was a champion bowler and proud Mason.   Charles most recently enjoyed traveling and playing computer poker.

He never met a stranger, but his greatest joy was his family and friends.   He remained strong in his faith in the Lord.

Charles is survived by his wife, Shirley; his children, Trey Leist and wife, Gail, Cass Leist and wife, Jennifer, Rebecca Philo and husband, Devron, Cody Ervin and Stacy Ervin Williams; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his parents, Charles and Ruby Leist, his brother Carlton Leist and wife, Jana and sister Judy and husband, Denny.

Charles was preceded in death by his sister, Vivian.