In Loving Memory of Charlotte S. Titla

Our beautiful mother Charlotte S. Titla journeyed to her heavenly home on November 23rd. She was 84 years old. Charlotte, an esteemed Apache matriarch of the Te’na’doljage’ clan, was a descendant of the San Carlos Apache Chief Talkalai. She served on the tribal council in the early 1980s. She was one of the first Apache women to serve on the tribal council and was the first Apache woman to run for Vice Chairman in 1985, but she failed to get enough signatures for her petition. She stated that the tribe was not ready for a female vice chairman at that time, but her efforts paved the way for other Apache women leaders. During her term, she was a strong advocate for the building of a high school on the San Carlos Apache Reservation, speaking to members of Congress about it. Charlotte was also a staunch proponent of higher education. Her children recall her saying "Education is the key to success." She never said "if" you go to college, it was "when" you go to college. She graduated from Grand Canyon College in 1989, which is now known as Grand Canyon University, where she received a Bachelor's degree in Social Work. She graduated from GCU along with her husband Phillip Titla, Sr., and son Phillip Titla, Jr. The Arizona Republic featured the three graduates as it is a rare occasion to have three members of one family graduate at the same time, let alone two parents and their child.

Charlotte is survived by her husband Phillip Titla, Sr., children Mary Kim Titla, Millie Titla, Phillip Titla, Jr., and Gussie Titla, four goddaughters, 12 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, two sisters, many cousins, nieces and nephews, and extended clan members. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, two brother,s and her beloved son Phillip Darrell Titla.

The family appreciates the many family and friends who have asked how they can assist. Charlotte's children are raising funds for their elderly father Phillip, a retired school teacher and master wood carver. The funds will be used to help cover his life needs including home repairs, car payments, and insurance. May God bless you in return. Thank you so much.