McLean Resident Remembered for His Compassion, Caring and Service

McLean resident Charles R. Proctor was remembered Saturday as a compassionate caregiver, dedicated dad and conservative Republican whose life had a Job-like resonance.

The memorial service brought together Charles Proctor's church family and his political family in the simple sanctuary of The National Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C.

Proctor, 68, a financial consultant, died July 9 of prostate cancer and heart ailments surrounded by friends holding hands and reciting the Lord's Prayer at the Virginia Hospital Center.

"A few months ago Charles Proctor stood here and did the most painful thing a father can do. He said goodbye to his only daughter," Del. Barbara Comstock (R-McLean), a friend, told the estimated 120 assembled friends.

"Charles had a Job-like life in his last decade," she said. He battled his own cancer for 10 years. His wife Roxanna, died from cancer in 2003. Then, as he bore his own cancer and heart ailments, he cared for his daughter Ashley Victoria, 38, who died in April of cancer.

"He saw more hardship than many of us with humor and his keen insight that he communicated," of his love of God, said his minister the Rev. Evangeline Taylor.

Another friend Michael Giere: "Never a complaint across his lips... no whining, no feeling sorry for himself because of his belief in God... Even as his life was slipping away he refused to acknowledge the unfairness of it."

Proctor served as a chaplain at the Virginia Hospital Center, making him a front-line helper.

"Charles was passionate about helping others in need," recalled Dianne Tingley.

As he cared for Victoria and underwent his own treatments, he helped other parents, prayed with them, gave counsel and service. He was "a friendly visit to those confined," she said.

"Always cheerful. Never drawing attention to himself, " Tingley recounted. "Friends lined up to serve him in his final days...Thank you Charles for your love. We loved you back," she said.

Born in Indianapolis and a graduate of Columbia University, Proctor was Executive Vice President and Chief Professional Officer of AON Reed Stenhouse's risk management subsidiary.

Active in Northern Virginia politics, Proctor served as treasurer of the 10th Congressional District Republican Committee and the Fairfax County Republican Committee.

"He wanted to outlive Victoria so he could help her," Rev. Taylor said. After Victoria's death, "he was ready to go."

Comstock said: "He was truly serenely happy on his last day. He was going to see his wife and daughter and be united for eternity. He's now enjoying his new life."

He has no immediate survivors. He donated his estate to his church said Howie Lind, one of the executors of his estate and chairman of the 10th Congressional District Republican Committee.