Charles W. Denningham Jr., 93

Charles W. Denningham Jr., age 93, a longtime resident of Hill, passed away Feb. 4, 2026, surrounded by the love, comfort and care of his devoted family. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Linda C. Denningham.

Charles was born in Ipswich, Massachusetts, on April 20, 1932. Due to family circumstances, both Charles and his younger brother resided at the Stetson Boys Home, an orphanage that functioned as a farm where children participated in daily agricultural work. Located in Barre, Massachusetts, it promoted self-reliance through structured daily routines and practical skills development. Charles often described his chores at the home, which included polishing silverware, ironing linens, and gardening.

In 1951, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served for 20 years. He attained the rank of master sergeant prior to his retirement from the military. Charles served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars and was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with Valor Device, Bronze Star medal with Valor Device, and Purple Heart medal. Upon retirement in 1971, from the Marine Corps, he took a 1,000-mile snowmobile trek along the famed Allagash Trail in Maine’s upper wilderness area.

Post-military, he served as chief deputy of criminal division for Merrimack County Sheriff’s Department and Belknap County Sheriff’s Department.

After his retirement, he enjoyed the privilege of participating in Honor Flight New England, in which he had the opportunity to travel with veterans to Washington, D.C., and reflect upon war memorials. Charles enjoyed spending time growing apples at his farm, using them to make homemade apple cider and apple pies with his family.

Charles is survived by his children, Charles W. Denningham III and his wife Connie G. of Concord, Sharon L. Denningham-Williams and her husband Burton W. Jr. of Hill, and Donna L. White and her husband Michael T. of Bedford, Virginia; and sister Mary Lou Magoon of Hill. Charles is preceded in passing by his brother, Paul E. Denningham, and sister, Joan E. Rule.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14, at Hill Village Bible Church in Hill, where he served as a dedicated deacon and faithful member for many years. A spring burial with military honors will be held at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made to Jennie D. Blake Student Activity Fund, 32 Crescent St., Hill, NH 03243, or Hill Village Bible Church Benevolent Fund, G.S. Nair Ministries, 36 Crescent St., Hill, NH 03243.