Charles James Edward “CJ” Ghuste, 30, of Morgantown, died as a result of injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019.
CJ or Shooter, as he was known, was born on Aug. 18, 1989, in Morgantown, to Charles Junior Ghuste II and Mrs. Laura Sue Chipps Ghuste.
CJ was a graduate of Morgantown High School class of 2008, and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served in Afghanistan with Dog Company, 3rd Battalion, 509th Infantry Airborne. He served with distinction and was honorably discharged in October of 2011. Upon returning to civilian life, he held jobs at Mylan and FCI Hazelton.
Most recently, he saw a need to help other veterans and formed Operation Activet, a non-profit 501 C3. This organization is geared toward assisting veterans returning to civilian life, with a focus on veterans living with PTSD and providing activities and events to involve veterans and families to find hobbies, set goals and maintain a healthy, happy lifestyle after military life.
CJ will be remembered for having a great sense of humor, his love and respect for the outdoors, a quick comment and always love of his God, country and family. His tireless efforts to aid his fellow heroes will not rest. His legacy will live on through Operation Activet and continue the fight against those suffering from the invisible scars.
In addition to his parents, Chuck and Laura, he leaves to carry on his legacy; brother, Jeremiah “Cowboy” Ghuste; sister, Trisha Anne “T-Bird” Ghuste; his girlfriend, Audra “Granny” Mayhew; his best canine friend and shotgun rider, Optimus Prime, all of Morgantown; aunts and uncles, Jennifer (Ray) Marrero, of Greenville, S.C., Jamie (John) Leonian, James Edward Chipps, Maggie (Glenn) Friend, all of Morgantown; and many other extended, uncles, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by many members of 3rd Battalion; his maternal grandparents, James Edward and Barbara Anne Chipps; his paternal grandmother. Marguerite Ann Ghuste; and his very dear friend, Michael “Dirty” Richards.
Friends may call at Fred L. Jenkins Funeral Home from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, and from 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 11, until the 11 a.m. services with Pastor Kenny Reed officiating. CJ will be laid to rest at the West Virginia National Cemetery, Pruntytown, with full military honors conducted by the Taylor County Honor Guard and WVANG, Camp Dawson.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to help with funeral expense at fredjenkinsfuneralhome.com and visit CJ’s memorial page for details.
