August 18, 1935 - March 31, 2016

Charlene McCluskey, Downey resident since 1962, passed away at home with family on 31st March at the age of 80.

Charlene was born on August 18, 1935 in Los Angeles to Jennie and Charles Haynes. She graduated from Van Nuys High School in 1953 and from University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1959. Charlene was a dedicated elementary school teacher with Los Angeles Unified School District for 43 years. She taught at Park Avenue School in Cudahy for forty of those years.

During her retirement, Charlene was very involved in the community, volunteering many hours to the Downey Women’s Assistance League and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Women’s Guild. She served the latter organization as President from 2008 to 2010. Charlene was also an active member of Downey chapter of P.E.O. and enjoyed her monthly lunch meetings with Red Hats. Charlene sang with the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church choir. Charlene was an accomplished pianist and loved dancing, opera and gardening.

Charlene is survived by her husband William H. McCluskey; her daughters’ Carrie and Diane Mayorga; son-in-law Paul Montesin; sister Jean Juell; brother-in-law Bruce Juell; stepchildren William N. and Michael McCluskey; step-daughter in law Iris McCluskey; step-grandchildren Ashley and Alicia McCluskey and Mia Montesin; nieces Jan, Melinda, Patti and Laura and nephew Christopher.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Charlene McCluskey’s name to The ALS Association’s Community of Hope.