MG (Ret.) Charles R. Painter, of Smyrna, passed away at home on November 3, 2011. He was 80. He was born in Golts, MD, the son of the late Byron F. and Hettie J. Painter. He was employed as a traffic controller with Conrail for 39 years, retiring in 1992. He enlisted in the Delaware National Guard in 1948, and rose through the ranks to retire as a Two-Star General in 1983, serving as the Assistant Adjutant General. Gen. Painter enjoyed shooting and flying planes out of the Smyrna Airport. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Joan S. Painter; a daughter, Jacqueline G. Painter, of Smyrna; and a brother, Robert B. Painter, of Middletown. Interment will be privately held at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, DE. To send a condolence letter, visit www.matthewsbryson.com. Arrangements are by Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Smyrna.