Margaret Charlene (Baum) Syms, affectionately known to family and friends as "Char" and to her grandchildren (and their friend's) as "Grandmom", passed away peacefully as God called her to His heavenly home on January 28, 2022.

Charlene was born on November 11, 1931 in Lancaster, OH to George Arthur Baum, Sr. and Mabel Marie (Thomas) Baum. After moving from OH at the age of 8, she spent the remainder of her childhood in South Charleston, WV. Upon graduating from South Charleston High School in 1949, Charlene began working at Harris, UpHam, which was associated with the New York Stock Exchange first as a 'Board Marker' then as a secretary. She met her soulmate, George Russel Syms during their senior year of high school. They were married January 31, 1953. During their 64 years of marriage, they lived in Huntington, WV, South Charleston, WV, Richmond, VA (twice), Greensboro, NC and Bluefield, WV before moving to Severna Park, MD in 1972 to present.

Charlene was a devoted wife, mother and grandmom. In the early years, she could be found volunteering in various capacities at her children's schools. From early on to present, she spent much time volunteering in multiple areas at their church. Later years found her attending as many as humanly possible, her grandchildren's programs and activities. Early in 'her' empty nest years, while waiting for George to retire, she worked part time first for Steffey Realty then Ray Grant Realty (this part time job lead to a lasting friendship). She enjoyed a good romance novel, sewing, keeping a tidy home – always ready for company and mostly spending/making time for her family and friends. She and her car were always ready to 'hit the road' to somewhere.

Charlene was preceded in death by her husband, George Russel Syms; brother's, Thomas Arthur Baum and George Arthur "Arty" Baum, Jr.; sister's Carolyn Baum Baber and Claris Baum Baer; and step grandson, Marcus Scott Keyser.

Charlene is survived by her three children, Cynthia (Bruce) Follin and Clifton (Jessie) Syms both of Pasadena, MD and Cathy (Steve) Miner of Candler, NC; brother, Jerry Wayne (Anita) Baum of Washington, WV; sister's-in-law, Caroll (Syms) Birch and Janina "Ja" Syms both of South Charleston, WV and Kay (Means) Baum of Warrenton, VA; 9 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren-plus another on the way; 4 step grandchildren; many cousin's, neice's and nephew's and dear friend's.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2022 at 11;00 am. Severna Park United Methodist church, 731 Benfield Road Severna Park, MD 21146.

If you desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Severna Park United Methodist Church – Memorial Garden. 731 Benfield Road Severna Park, MD 21146