Charlene Cleghorn, 73 years of Bright, IN, passed away Thursday, October 15, 2026, surrounded by her family. Many will fondly remember “Miss Charlene” or “Miss Leney” as their favorite babysitter. For many children growing up in Bright, Charlene was much more than a babysitter; she was a second mom. She opened her home and heart to countless children and their families, becoming an important part of their lives. She was there to celebrate many of their first milestones, from first words to first steps, and provided love, comfort, and care along the way.
Charlene was a talented seamstress who loved crafting, making doll clothes, and mending clothing. She was especially known for her handmade stuffed elves and pumpkins, which were always popular at local craft shows and often sold out each year. Her grandchildren were fortunate recipients of her many talents, as she was always busy creating something special just for them.
Charlene enjoyed shopping and garage saling, but nothing compared to the time she spent with her grandchildren. Many of her shopping finds were treasures for them, allowing her to combine two of her favorite pastimes. An animal lover at heart, Charlene often dreamed of living on a farm with plenty of land and a pond. Throughout her life, she welcomed a variety of animals into her home, including chickens, rabbits, ducks, birds, cats, and dogs.
Charlene shared a deep and inseparable love with her husband, John, who passed in 2015. He fondly called her “Shorty”, as many of her siblings did, and they shared many laughs together. Knowing John and Charlene have been reunited in heaven is a blessing to their children. A few years ago, Charlene moved to Tennessee to be closer to her sister. During that time, she met Carl Mix and they immediately clicked. They developed a true companionship and were a great support for one other.
Charlene will be deeply missed by her children John (Shannon) Cleghorn, Shawn (Jama) Cleghorn, Shari Cleghorn, and Neldean, a niece, who was always treated as a daughter; grandchildren Max, JT, Jorja, Paitynn, Asher, Shawn Carmichael; siblings Sherry (Randall Lee) Alexander, brother-in-law Hollice McCurry; many nieces & nephews, including Vicky Endean, who was more like a sister. She is preceded in death by John Cleghorn, her husband of 42 years; siblings Floyd LaFever, Deanna Young, Dean McCurry, Patricia Rifner; and parents Charles and Ravenelle (Ashburn) Willoughby.
Services for Charlene will be held on one of her favorite holidays, Halloween. A Celebration of Life will begin at 10:00am on Saturday, October 31 at Andres-Wuestefeld Funeral Home. Words of Remembrance by family members will begin at 11:45am. Family and friends are encouraged to leave condolences at www.andres-wuestefeldfh.com.