Charles Lee Vanlandingham, 90, of Mexico, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Arnold Funeral Home, with Rev. Bryce Kristofferson officiating. Burial will follow at East Lawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 16, at Arnold Funeral Home.

Charles was born on July 27, 1935, to Charles and Sylvia (Bridgford) Vanlandingham. He graduated from Mexico High School in 1953 and went on to attend Gem City Business College in Quincy, Illinois. On June 14, 1959, he married Colleen Clark, and together they shared a lifetime of love and family.

Charles devoted 42 years of his career to accounting in the brick industry. He began his career with Mexico Refractories, which later became Kaiser Refractories and ultimately National Refractories, where he remained until his retirement.

A devoted member of First Christian Church, Charles served faithfully in many roles, including chairman of the congregation, deacon, trustee, and as a member of numerous committees. He was also a member of the National Association of Accountants for 30 years and was active in the Golden K Kiwanis Club, where he served as president, treasurer, and on various committees.

Survivors include his wife, Colleen Vanlandingham of Mexico; son, Kevin (Deborah) Vanlandingham of St. Louis; daughter-in-law, Glenda Vanlandingham of Mexico; two grandchildren, Raleigh and Ramsey Vanlandingham; two great-grandchildren, Zoe Vanlandingham and Aiden Vanlandingham; three sisters-in-law, Kathy Kobush of Laddonia, Vickie (Forrest) Oelschlaeger of Hermann, and Becky Smith of Mexico; and several nieces and nephews.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents; son, Gary Vanlandingham; an infant grandson, David Lee Vanlandingham; and one sister-in-law, Linda Wyatt.

The family requests memorial donations be made to Centennial Baptist Church or First Christian Church. Memorials may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson, Mexico, MO 65265.