On Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021, a United States World War II Army veteran said his final farewell to this life at the age of 95 and his soul entered into eternal peace. He was the youngest of three children born to Charlie W. and Harriett Tabb Baytop of Water View on June 21, 1925. Before Charles Winslow Baytop became a husband, father, grandfather, welder and master brick mason he was a soldier.
My father very rarely talked to me about his experiences as a soldier in the United States Army, but what he did say will stay with me forever. As a young man entering the army on Jan. 4, 1944, to begin service for his country, he was ready for the venture. He told me that many of the Black soldiers would conceal their health ailments so that they could fight for their country and the American people. They were soldiers that served their country for an amount that would be minimal to us today and a final destination back home either in spirit or alive. If you have ever had an opportunity to visit one of our many veterans hospitals, a visit will reveal to you the brotherhood of the soldiers/veterans, young/old, male/female, their stories and experiences.
Being in a foreign country he found that the people had varying opinions of the American Black soldiers. He conveyed to me that some had been told they, the Black soldiers, were like monkeys and had hair like barbwire. After seeing and interacting with Black soldiers the foreigners came to realize that what they had been led to believe about Black soldiers was not true.
Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, he was decorated with citations of: a good conduct medal, the European African Middle Eastern theater ribbon, World War II Victory ribbon, and the Army Occupation (Germany) medal, only to come back to a country still full of discrimination for him and all Blacks.
Upon discharge from the Army, he ventured to St. Paul’s Industrial and Normal School to complete his high school diploma and began training for his lifelong career as a master brick mason. His next stop on life’s journey was Tuskegee College, where he shared with my husband seeing the first lady of the United States of America (Eleanor Roosevelt). He was quite impressed with her.
At St. Paul’s Industrial and Normal School, he met and fell in love with Rebecca Leola Easley and they later married in 1949. From this union came three children, Sabrina Latimore, Demetrius Baytop, Sophronia Baytop; and two grandchildren, Danielle Latimore and Randolph Latimore Jr.
As I began to receive comments about my father from different sources, I felt compelled to share these with the others who knew Charles Baytop. The current pandemic might have stopped us from gathering, but it has commanded us to use God’s gifts and become creative in our methods of communicating with each other. I hope you enjoy these memories as much as I have.
Grandpa always made sure that the breeze was cool. He had a demeanor that made him easy to talk to. He loved to fish and it was a great time fishing with him. He will be missed greatly and has left a long-lasting impression on my life, as I am sure the lives of many others. RIP Grandson Randolph
My grandfather lived with all he had – a love and passion for nature (especially the river and fishing), working with his hands, dogs, having a good time and humor. He interacted with all and traveled like a “cool breeze” coming and going with the ease and swagger of a rooster ruling a roost. He lived life unabashedly without regret. Crow on rooster. Granddaughter Danielle
For two summers, when I was in high school, I and Nathaniel would work with Uncle Charlie. It was during this time that I learned the trade and decided to pursue it in high school but the army got me first. People (all races) loved hanging out and knew Breeze and he touched them in different ways, but the river was his home. Farewell Uncle Charles. Buster
In my teenage years I spent one summer with Aunt Leola and Uncle Charles. He (Uncle Charles) taught me how to shuck oysters, clean clams and filet fish, skills I still use today. He’ll be missed. Charmaine and family
Thank you for sharing Mr. Baytop with us; the times we spent with him learning and perfecting our bricklaying trade. He helped make us into the strong men we are today. We will miss him and his humor, but hold the memories dear in our hearts. Nathaniel “Skeeter” Clayton and the Day Trades Class
Mr. Baytop was always concerned about the kind of rod we used when fishing on a crowded boat. The one that was being used, looked like a child’s rod. He did not like that so I bought a new rod and he said: “now that’s better.” He made sure we were well equipped for fishing. We will miss him. Lucille, Lorretta, and Shirley
Mr. Baytop always had good advice for me as a young teenager and he hired me on occasions to work for him. He was instrumental in inspiring me to work for myself. May he rest in peace. Love George
Charles in his pastime liked to play cards (Spades) and the time we all spent together will never be forgotten. He will truly be missed. Vasal, Vonda, and friends
I remember once there was a chimney fire at his home. My mother was frantic and one of the volunteer firemen said, “Charlie built this. No problem here.”
Due to COVID-19, a private military ceremony will be conducted at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Amelia, Virginia, on Jan. 25.
I and my family would like to thank Mr. Baytop’s caregivers, Ms. Nannie Harris and Ms. Dayle Fauntleroy for their devotion and dedicated service to him, enabling him to live at home. My father was provided with impeccable care, during his sudden period of illness, from Tappahannock Riverside Hospital, The Orchard Rehab Center, and McGuire Veterans Hospital, for this, the family is sincerely grateful.
To all, I wish you health, safety and the continued love of family and friends.
