Charles Piker

Charles Ernest “Chuck” Piker, 82, a resident of Harrisonburg, Virginia, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026 at his home.

Chuck was born on December 8, 1943 in Little Rock, Arkansas and was a son of the late Glenn Charles and Dimple Viola Worley Piker.

Chuck was a man of service, demonstrating from an early age his commitment to his community and his nation. As a young teenager, Chuck saved a boy from drowning, an act that foreshadowed his future dedication to service and saving lives. Chuck achieved the rank of Eagle Scout before attending Ouachita Baptist University graduating with a bachelor’s degree in history. After graduating, Chuck was commissioned in the United States Army, through Ouachita’s ROTC Program, where he served dutifully for twenty two and a half years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. His tenure included two tours of duty in Vietnam, where he served as a helicopter pilot. His selfless service did not end with his military career. After receiving his Master of Science in Logistic Management from the Florida Institute of Technology, Chuck continued to serve his community by working for the Commonwealth of Kentucky and Fayette County Schools. His passion for service was matched only by his love for his family, golfing, fishing, University of Kentucky basketball, and watching his favorite show, M*A*S*H. Chuck attended Vison of Hope United Methodist Church.

On December 29, 1965, he married Linda Grace Wall Piker who survives. They had just celebrated their 60th anniversary.

Also surviving is his son, Douglas Piker and wife Dr. Erin Piker of Harrisonburg; and his granddaughter, Winter Grace Piker.

In addition to his parents, Chuck was preceded in death by his brother, Roderick Piker and wife Mary, and his sister, Ramona Beth Lacy and husband Joe; and his in-laws, Willard and Reba Nichols Wall.

A memorial service will be held at Vison of Hope United Methodist Church on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 3 p.m. with Pastor Mike Reeves officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Burial will be held at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Harrisonburg Rescue Squad, PO Box 1477, Harrisonburg, VA 22803; Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS), PO Box 817, Waynesboro, VA 22980; or to the Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA, PO Box 413, Harrisonburg, VA 22803

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.

McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.