Charlie LaCorte

Charles Philip La Corte, Jr., 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 30, 2025. Born on July 26, 1937, Charlie lived a rich and impactful life defined by his unwavering dedication to his family, distinguished public service career, and commitment to improving the communities he served.

Charlie was preceded in death by his father, Charles R. La Corte; his mother, Lucy La Corte; his brother, Michael “Sonny” La Corte and sister-in-law, Eleanor; and his sister, Marian Coppa, and brother-in-law, Bill Coppa.

He is survived by his devoted wife and love, Janet La Corte; his sister, Josephine Swan, brother-in-law Bill, sister-in-law Debbie, his cherished friend Teddy and numerous nieces and nephews.

A devoted father, Charlie leaves a legacy through his children and their families. He was preceded in death by his sons, Rocco and Frank; his daughter, Tanya; and grandson Matthew. He is survived by his children: Charles, Luaneette, Kim, Karen, and Tara (son-in-law, Rob). His grandchildren include Chaz (Parker), Nina, Rachel, Patrick, Brent (Kendall), Hope, (grandson-in-law, Josh), Abby, and Taylor. His great-grandchildren include Bentley, Porter, Scout, Navy Grace, Kane Wesley, and Evie Charles Grace.

Charlie was known as Junior, Dad, Charlie, Grandpa, George, and Georgie. The names George and Georgie were affectionately given to him as his grandfather names by his granddaughter and partner-in-crime Abby when she was very young after they watched "George of the Jungle" together. The names stuck with the great-grandchildren calling him George, except for five-year-old Scout, who preferred Georgie. Georgie spent countless hours reading books to Scout.

Charlie’s professional journey was marked by excellence and service. He began his career in the U.S. Navy (1954-1958), followed by a tenure at Ford Motor Co. (1958-1964). His passion for public safety led him to serve as a Firefighter and Public Safety Officer with the Clifton NJ Fire Department (1964-1969) and as a Firefighter Engineer with the Reedy Creek Improvement District (Walt Disney World) Fire Department (1969-1977). From 1977 to 2004, Charlie dedicated himself to the Florida Department of Treasury, Division of State Fire Marshal, Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations. Rising to the rank of Detective Captain, he supervised arson investigations across Central Florida, trained fire investigators statewide and internationally, and contributed to high-profile cases, including the 1992 Florida Church Arson Task Force and Serial Arsonist Investigations. His expertise was honored in 2004 when the Annual Florida Arson Investigator of the Year award was named in his honor.

In 2010, Charles relocated to Lighthouse Cove in Melbourne Beach, where he continued to serve his community. He briefly held a position as a Board Member in 2012 and worked tirelessly on the Maintenance Committee, contributing to projects such as the boat ramp, pier improvements, water tank tower construction, and hurricane preparedness efforts. His dedication ensured Lighthouse Cove remained a beautiful and welcoming place for all.

Charlie’s final move was in 2020 to Gulfstream Harbor. Well into his 80s, he could be seen out cruising the streets of Gulfstream in his golf cart as part of the Community Response Team helping others in need. His desire to serve those in need was rooted deep in his soul.

Charlie was passionate about raising awareness for male breast cancer after his own diagnosis in 2018 with infiltrating ductal carcinoma, which required a mastectomy. Thankfully, the cancer was caught early through a self-exam when he discovered a lump under his arm. Charlie became a vocal advocate, urging men to check themselves regularly and seek medical advice without hesitation, turning his personal experience into a mission to save lives.

A man of deep faith, Charlie chose the Catholic confirmation name Philip inspired by St. Philip Neri, the patron saint of joy, reflecting his vibrant spirit and the happiness he brought to those around him. His faith guided his life and inspired his boundless love for family and community. Charlie embodied the wisdom of St. Philip Neri, who said, “To preserve our cheerfulness amid sicknesses and troubles, is a sign of a right and good spirit.” Even in the face of personal challenges, Charlie’s joyful spirit remained a beacon of hope and love. In his honor, we share this prayer to his patron saint: “Oh holy St. Philip Neri, patron saint of joy, you who trusted Scripture’s promise that the Lord is always at hand and that we need not have anxiety about anything, in your compassion heal our worries and sorrows and lift the burdens from our hearts. We come to you as one whose heart swells with abundant love for God and all creation. Hear us, we pray, especially in this need. Keep us safe through your loving intercession, and may the joy of the Holy Spirit which filled your heart, St. Philip, transform our lives and bring us peace. Amen.”

Charlie La Corte will be remembered for his integrity, leadership, and the profound love he shared with his family and friends. His life’s work leaves an indelible mark on his community. Charlie brought incredible love and joy to every moment. He was always “active” in family events, but his true masterpiece was the Christmas Eve Feast of the Seven Fishes. This methodical process of preparing the meal started early in the day and ended with everyone barely able to move. Charlie loved this dinner and its traditions. While the food was exceptional, the process and the memories created were the real event. Our entire family and those who participated over the years will always cherish Charlie as the teacher and the boss of this cherished tradition.

Charlie always asked first how you were doing, regardless of what he was going through. We miss Charlie and will forever miss him; he will never be far from our thoughts. While our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that he is in a better place. His love and legacy are forever ingrained in our hearts and minds. Future generations will know our Sicilian Charlie through the memories, stories, and traditions he shared with us. The youngest and newest addition to our family, born May 5, 2025, will carry forward his namesake as Evie Charles Grace Black.

Charlie’s viewing and visitation will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home - East Orlando Chapel, 895 S Goldenrod Rd, Orlando, FL 32822, on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 5pm to 8pm. The family invites you to speak during the viewing; and there will be a deacon present to offer prayer and comfort.

Charlie’s funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 4545 Anderson Road, Orlando, FL 32812, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 11am.

Following the service, the family invites you to join the escorted funeral procession to Chapel Hill Cemetery, 2420 Harrell Road, Orlando, FL 32817 for committal with military honors.

Following the burial, the family invites you to join them for a reception at Johnny's Fillin' Station, 2631 S Ferncreek Ave, Orlando, FL 32806 to enjoy community and fellowship to celebrate Charlie’s life.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this time and invites all who knew Charlie to join in celebrating his remarkable life.

To share your memories of Charlie, or to leave a special message of condolence for his family, please visit and sign the guestbook below.