Remembering the life of Charlene Crowder

Charlene Therese Crowder was born on October 2, 1961 to Charles and Mary Crowder in Philadelphia, Pa. She was the youngest of three daughters born to this union.

Charlene was the adoring mother of daughters, Kia ago 25 and Briana age 17. Anyone who knew Charlene understood that her daughters were the center of her life. Charlene was baptized in Jesus Name and attended Jesus in the Midst Ministries in Hammonton, NJ for the past 7 years. Charlene received her primary education at St. carthage Parochial School in Philadelphia before gaining admission for high school to Civilian Academy in Mt. Airy, Pa.

Charlene matriculated at Hampton University where she earned a Bachelor's of Science Degree. Always interested in professional growth, she continued her education at Rutgers University where, upon completion of her thesis, she was to receive a Master's in Public Administration Degree.

Charlene was a Registered Nurse for 27 years. She was employed at Ancora State Hospital in Winslow Township for almost 22 of those years. Charlene worked as a Charge Nurse, Instructor of Nursing, Acting Assistant Director, Supervisor of Nursing Services and most recently as Nursing Program Coordinator. She also worked at Tris Crisis and Residential Center for 10 years.

Charlene was an active volunteer in her community. She served as a member of the Winslow Township Board of Health for 8 years. She also served as Liaison for the Camden County Regional Health Center for 4 years. While her oldest daughter was enrolled in high school,Charlene waged an enthusiastic campaign to become a member of the Winslow Board of Education. She won the election and served as a member of the Board for 4 years.

Charlene was nicknamed "Lene" by family and sometimes called "Char" by friends. She will be remembered for her compassion for others, her gregarious personality and her congenial presence. If she walked into a room full of strangers, she would leave with a room full of friends.

Charlene's much too brief life on this earth came to an end unexpectedly on July 14, 2011. She leaves precious memories for her daughters, Kia and Briana; her mother Mary; her father, Charles; his wife, Margaret; her sisters, Charisse Champion, Cheryl Crowder, Carla Brown; three nephews, Tracy, Timothy and Jule; her precious dog Poppy and a host of family members and friends.

Lovingly submitted,

The Family