Gorham – Charles R. Leighton, 81, passed away on Tuesday, September 26, 2017. He was born in Portland on December 5, 1935, the son of Ralph and Clorie (Towne) Leighton. Charles grew up in Portland and was a graduate of Portland High School where he was inducted to the Maine Sports Hall of Fame for swimming. After school, he joined the United States Air Force and proudly served his country for four years of active duty from 1954-1958. He also served for over 22 years in the Maine Air National Guard where he always enjoyed playing Santa Claus at the annual Christmas party for many years. Charles was a mechanic by trade, and had a career with Fairchild that lasted over 26 years. He also worked at the Gorham House for 11 years before he retired. Charles married June Whitten on April 4, 1959, and together the two spent 57 years together rooting on their beloved Boston Red Sox, before June passed away early last year. The couple was also life-long members of the Immanuel Baptist Church in Portland, where they often volunteered. He also volunteered his time with TRIAD, which is a cooperative partnership between law enforcement agencies, elder service providers, and seniors in the Gorham community. Charles loved being outdoors, especially if he was hunting, fishing, or just riding along on his lawn mower. He had a magnetic personality that could draw you in with his ability to tell stories, share a laugh, or simply listen. He is survived by his daughter, Mary Ellen Janeiro of Andover, MA; sons, Donald Leighton of Hollywood, FL, and Steven Leighton of Raymond; granddaughters, Jordan and Meghan Janeiro of Andover, and Lacey Leighton of Portland; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be celebrated at 11am on Saturday, September 30, 2017, at the Dolby Funeral Chapel, 79 State St., Gorham, where a period of visitation will be held from 10am until the time of the service. Burial will follow to Hillside Cemetery, Gorham. To express condolences or to participate in Charles's online tribute, please visit www.dolbyfuneralchapels.com. Memorial Donations in Charles' honor may be made to Hospice of Southern Maine, 180 US Rte. 1, Suite 1, Scarborough, ME 04074.