We are saddened to learn of the death of Charlie Piscitello who formerly pastored the GCI congregation in Batavia, New York. He died on July 30 and was buried on August 4 in Batavia.
Charlie was born with cataracts and glaucoma, and following several childhood accidents had both eyes removed. He attended the New York State School for the Blind. It was there on a coal pile that he found a guitar. He taught himself to play and later formed a band with several classmates and an instructor at the school.
Charlie’s first recordings were made at the school. After leaving the school in 1961, Charlie formed a band, playing in various western New York venues. Later, he hired a manager and began touring. On one occasion, Charlie filled in for the Eagles as the opening act for Blood, Sweat, and Tears. Charlie’s music and charm impressed the band, who offered him a contract to continue the tour.
With the stage name Charlie Starr, Charlie cut several single records and two albums: Just Plain Charlie and Tough and Tender. His musical career spanned all fifty states, touring with individuals and groups, including the Moody Blues, James Taylor, Johnny Cash and the Carter family, Tina Turner, the Carpenters, and Yes. James Taylor graciously offered Charlie his song, One Man Dog in reference to Charlie’s guide dog, Princess, pictured on the Just Plain Charlie album cover (see cover picture, above).
Abandoning fame and fortune to tune pianos and serve the Lord in ministry, Charlie left his musical career and dedicated his music and his life to the Lord. In 1991, while living on a dairy farm in Greene, NY, Charlie met Judi, and not long after their marriage in 1992, Charlie began a small Bible study group in their home in Batavia.
In 1997, Charlie was ordained an elder in the Worldwide Church of God. He then became pastor of GCI’s Batavia Christian Fellowship, which later merged with Faith Community Chapel.
When his health began to fail, Charlie pastored a small house church and participated in a prayer ministry with Care-A-Van Ministries. He also occasionally joined the Care-A-Van band, sharing the gospel at every opportunity.
Charlie is survived by his wife Judi, four sons, two brothers, a sister, four sisters-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews and five grandchildren.
Cards may be sent to:
Mrs. Judi Piscitello 205 Bank St Batavia, NY 14020-1503
Deepest sympathy to Piscitello family.
Charley left a big impression on my life as a young teen. I saw him perform Malaguena on his Stratocaster at the Feast in Mt. Pocono back in the 70’s. He will be remembered as a man who used his talents and didn’t lean on excuses; an example of trusting in Jesus.
May his ministry legacy continue to have an impact.
Grace and peace, James Newby
What a dear man and fellow musician and elder. I will never forget the stages we shared in music ministry in Saratoga Springs in the mid-late 90s. And all were always blessed by the one-and-only “Amen dog” – Cory! God’s comfort to you Judi, and all his loved ones.
Dear Judy, may God bless you and keep you! Adrienne and I offer our condolences to you. You and Charlie were always an inspiration to us when we were in Harrisburg, PA. Love, Tom and Adrienne
Dear Judi
So sorry to hear about the passing of Charlie. He was certainly a strong man of God and a very pleasant soul. God bless and keepy you and the family.
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. May God, through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, keep you and your family snuggled in His all loving and caring arms during this time of loss and healing.
In Christian Love
Grace Covenant Fellowship
Birmingham, Alabama
This was a nice bio. but to short for a man with many gifts. I’m sure he left this world a better place for many families and friends with his talents and examples. I know Judi will carry on his mission to others.