With profound sorrow, yet unwavering gratitude for a life so richly lived, we celebrate the life of Charlie Earl “Sonny” Britton, who was called home to his beloved Maker on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
Born on January 4, 1939, in Wake, Virginia, Sonny was the first of two treasured sons of Charles Joseph Britton and Edna Sadler Britton. From very humble beginnings, he grew into a man defined by integrity, quiet strength, deep compassion, and an enduring devotion to the people he loved most.
Known simply as “Sonny” to all whose lives he touched, he carried that name with warmth and authenticity. He graduated from West Point High School before continuing his education at Lynchburg College, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Economics as a proud member of the Class of 1962.
Sonny dedicated over 30 years of faithful service to the Internal Revenue Service, where he built a reputation as a man of fairness, intelligence, and trust. His career culminated in his role as one of only fifty Problem Resolution Officers in the United States, a reflection not only of his professional excellence, but of the respect he earned nationwide for his ability to solve problems with both precision and humanity across the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Yet, while his professional accomplishments were admirable, Sonny’s true calling was his love for family and community.
He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Jennie Sodero Britton, with whom he shared a beautiful marriage rooted in love, faith, and partnership until her passing in 2023. Together, they built not just a home, but a life centered on devotion to one another and to their children. As a father, Sonny was nothing short of extraordinary. He was revered by his children, not only for his guidance and presence, but for the unconditional love he gave so freely.
Sonny is survived by his loving brother, Victor Britton, and sister-in-law, Sharon Britton, of Mattaponi, Virginia, his devoted son, Charles E. Britton, Jr., and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Diane Britton, of Mechanicsville, Virginia. He is preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Sandra Britton Evans (2017) and by his beloved wife, Jennie Sodero Britton (2023), with whom he now rests in eternal peace. Sonny also found immense joy in his role as Uncle to Scott Britton and Robin Britton of West Point, the children of Victor and Sharon.
Sonny’s legacy is not defined by a single accomplishment, but by the countless lives he touched—through his service to his country, his dedication to his faith, his compassion for others, and above all, his unwavering love for his family.
Services to honor the life of Charlie Earl “Sonny” Britton will be held 12 noon Tuesday June 9th at Vincent Funeral Home, West Point, Virginia. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 AM. Burial will take place in Saint Therese’s Cemetery, in West Point, immediately following the Service.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to either of the following organizations:
- Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Richmond Office: 4600 Cox Road, Suite 130, Glen Allen, VA 23060 804.967.2580
- National Kidney Foundation (NKF) Serving Virginia: 1622 East Parham Road, Richmond, VA 23228 804.288.8342
