Charles A. “Charlie” Schena, of Plymouth, 73, passed away on July 27 at Cape Regency Rehabilitation and Health Center in Centerville. He was the beloved husband of Marion (Crooker) Schena; the loving father of Michael Schena and his wife, Ashley, of Virginia, and the late Stephanie Jasmin; and the cherished grandfather of Felicity Jasmin. He was the dear brother of David Schena and his wife, Carol, of Acton.
Charlie was born on December 24, 1951, in Boston to the late Amelio and Dorothy (Duffy) Schena. He was raised in the Mission Hill neighborhood and graduated from Mission Hill High School. Following high school, Charlie proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1973. He went on to earn his master’s degree from the University of Massachusetts.
Not long after, Charlie was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a life-altering diagnosis that never defined or defeated him. Instead, he dedicated his life to volunteer work and advocacy, championing causes close to his heart and making a profound impact on his community.
Charlie was a longtime and devoted volunteer with South Shore Community Action. His decades of service were recognized with a plaque displayed under the flagpole at the organization’s main headquarters. He also served as Commander of Disabled American Veterans Chapter 72 and was actively involved with the Paralyzed Veterans of America. His passionate advocacy played a significant role in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, and he was honored to attend the signing of the landmark legislation at the White House by President George H.W. Bush.
The P&B Bus Company in Plymouth was the first local business to implement ADA-compliant services, and Charlie and his family were proud to be the first to experience them. Despite his disability, Charlie enjoyed adaptive skiing, bowling, and a full life of purpose, positivity, and perseverance. His kindness, commitment to others, and infectious smile left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
A period of visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Cartmell-Davis Life Celebration Funeral Home, 619 State Road, Plymouth (Manomet). The burial will take place on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 12:45 pm at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Connery Ave., Bourne.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Charlie’s memory may be made to the National MS Society, P.O. Box 91891, Washington, D.C., 20090-1891 or here.