Charley Waites, known affectionately as Lil Brother, was born on Feburary 8, 1953 in Irving, TX to parents, Arthur Waites and Emma Waites. At an early age, he developed talents in sports and as a singer. He was educated in the Irving Independent School District and graduated from Irving High School in 1970.

After graduation, Charley enrolled at Southwestern Christian College and later at North Texas State University, where he received his bachelor's degree and completed gradute coursework towards a Master's degree. His philosophy of self-sufficiency eventually led him to start his own business as a proprietor of various services headquartered in the Black community. Commercial building maintenance-tax preparation-notary services-car titling...Charley learned how to do it all. He was dedicated to his work and had a passion for uplifting his community. He believed that a greater knowledge of religion, self, and one's history would empower people and the community, as a whole.

In his leisure he enjoyed playing chess, dominoes, and engaging in deep, thought-provoking discussions with his friends and family. He was well-read and educated himself on many topics and had a thirst for absorbing the teachings of Black historians, philosophers and religious-thought leaders.

On November 6, 2019, surrounded by the love of his family, Charley completed his journey on earth. His facial expression of the ulitmate peace was of great comfort to his love ones. 

Charley was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Emma Waites. He is survived by his wife, Priscilla; his sons: Charley Jr. and Malcolm; his daughters: Kim, Carmen, and Katina; grandchildren: Robbyn, Stephanie, Pierre, Ray, and Zack; six great grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.