CHARLES EDWARD ELSTON, SR.

Charles Edward Elston Sr. was born on September 5, 1954, in Buffalo, NY to Sylvia Miller (Chambers) and the late Macon Elston.  Charles attended Indianapolis Public Schools and he earned an Associates Degree in Art from Clark College.  He was a member of the Armed Services for a brief moment.

Charles was a prolific artist who began drawing at the age of four.  Throughout his life, he painted many celebrities including the likes of Prince, Muhumad Ali, and Diana Ross, personally showed their appreciation for how he brought their images to life. 

Charles was also very proud of his African heritage, and centered a great deal of his talent on showcasing African inspired art. He was also known as “Kantu”, a moniker referencing his diasporic connection; he autographed many of his works as such. As an entrepreneur with over 60 years' experience, he traveled all over the nation showcasing his art at exhibits and shows, winning many awards.  With the support of his family, one of Charles’ greatest achievements was the founding the Onyx Images Art Gallery and Framing Company in Speedway, IN which exclusively showcased his work.

Mr. Elston was also a great historian, community activist, and storyteller.  He loved to educate and debate politics, especially those impactful to the Black community. Much of his artwork showcased his perspective on the social and political climate of the times.

Charles had a great sense of humor; he loved to joke, laugh, and he loved having fun.  He liked to play cards, fish, watch movies, and he loved to spend time with the family, especially during barbecues…He was a grill master.  He loved to dress up with his wife and go for a night out on the town; he loved to dance.  He loved classic cars and he was a diehard sports fan, especially of the Colts. He loved the Lord and attended many churches.

Mr. Charles Elston Sr. journey on this side ended on February 10, 2026. He was 71 years old.  He is preceded in death by his father, Macon Elston, his two sons, Charles Elston Jr. and Calvin Elston, and his brother, whose name was also Calvin Elston. 

He leaves to cherish his devoted loving wife and best friend, Linda Moss-Elston; mother, Sylvia Chambers; his daughters, Shantel Tyson, Charlene Daniel, Elonda Elston, and Monica Elston; brothers, Thomas Elston, Lemon Elston and Everett Chambers; sisters, Alma Walker, Carolyn Johnson, and Sylvia Powell; his stepsons Dominic Coleman and David Thomas III, stepdaughters, Candice Coleman and Robin Coleman; grandchildren, Jasmine Harris, Michael Brown Jr., Jessica Brown, Mariah Brown, Louis Jenkins, Jamal Elston, Ebony Starks, Monae Latchison, William Jenkins, Dominique Covington, Mikaela Toliver, Dominique Coleman, Garland Davenport Jr., Kira Thomas, and Kelsi Thomas; and a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other loved ones.

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