Edward Joseph Charest

Rev. Edward J. Charest passed away peacefully at his home in Moultonborough, NH, surrounded by loved ones, on November 17, 2023, after a courageous battle with vascular dementia.

Born in Methuen, MA, on November 4, 1943, Ed's journey through life was marked by a deep commitment to faith, service, and a passion for caring for others.

Ed attended Methuen High School, where he not only excelled academically but also showcased his musical talent by playing the drums in the school band. His youth was strongly influenced by his active involvement in the First Methodist Church of Methuen, where he developed a lifelong connection to his faith.

After high school, Ed pursued higher education at Nasson College in Springvale, ME, earning his bachelor’s degree. He continued his studies at Emory University in Atlanta, GA, where he achieved a master’s in theology, establishing a foundation for a lifetime of pastoral service.

Ed served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, stationed in Heidelberg, Germany, where he attained the rank of Sergeant. His military service was a testament to his dedication to his community and sense of duty and sparked his deep interest in travel and commitment to learning about people from different countries and cultures.

However, it was in his pastoral role that Ed truly shined. He served at various Methodist churches in New Hampshire, including Milford United Methodist Church, Salem United Methodist Church, Moultonboro United Methodist Church, and Plymouth United Methodist Church. Additionally, he served as an Interim Pastor at Center Conway UMC, NH. Ed's ministry was marked by a unique ability to connect with parishioners of all ages, delivering sermons that blended humor and spirituality, and always making children the centerpiece of the church by using puppets and other activities to bring the Word to them. In addition, Ed committed much of his time to visiting the sick, sad, lonely, or homebound in his community, and brought hope, humor, and grace to their day.

In retirement, Ed served two terms on the Moultonborough Board of Selectmen and was the Board’s representative on the town’s planning board. In addition, he was called upon countless times to assist those in need of a helping hand, lead petrified couples through their wedding ceremonies, or perform a shotgun baptism.

Ed's life journey took him well beyond New England. He lived in Atlanta, Miami, and Germany. His love for music, dancing, genealogy, gardening, and travel reflected a vibrant spirit that touched the lives of all who knew him. During his life, he journeyed throughout the United States and Europe, including trips to Niagara Falls and Nova Scotia during his final year.

Ed is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly Taylor-Charest; sons Christopher and Ovidiu Charest; stepchildren Erik Taylor (Wendy) and Stacy Taylor-Lyle (Charles); grandchildren Madison and Maxwell Taylor; adopted grandkids Kevin and Desiree Lancaster; sister Nancy (Peter) Picone; nieces Michelle (Karl) Rademacher, Pam Picone, Gina Fernandez; Peter Picone, Jr (Lisa); god-daughter Anna Dobbens; several great nieces and nephews; extended family, and a multitude of friends. Ed was predeceased by his parents, Leo and Ruth (Bower) Charest and niece Maria Castro (Nelson).

A service in celebration of Ed’s life will be held at the Moultonboro United Methodist Church on Saturday, December 9th at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers and in honor of Ed's lifelong commitment to compassion and community service, the family requests donations be made to Moultonborough United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 188, Moultonborough, NH 03254.

Ed leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and grace that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

“His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” Matthew 25:23