Staff report
Charles J. “Chas” Brannen, 79, of Covington, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, after an extended illness.
Chas graduated from St Xavier High School in 1964, earned a BS in chemistry in 1968 and his JD in 1971 from the University of Kentucky. He went into private law practice and served as a Kenton County District Judge from 1978 to 1985. He also worked in the insurance industry for a number of years before returning to the practice of law.
Chas had many caring friends and is fondly remembered for “holding court” at Roebling Books and Coffee on Greenup Street.
He is survived by his brother, Jim (Dianne) Brannen, and his sisters, Fran (Charles) Pieck, June Dineen, and Angie (Jim) Kiger; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank X. and Helen Brannen.
A memorial and graveside service will be held at a later date at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Memorial Contributions are suggested to the Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky, 436 W 13th St., Covington, KY 41011. Ronald Jones Funeral Home is handing arrangements.