Charles Edward Begley
Obituary
Charles E Begley Obituary
Charles (Chuck) Edward Begley (February 25, 1947 – June 27, 2023) was born in El Paso, Texas
to Margaret and Alvin Begley. He was raised in Tucson, Arizona along with his older sister
Margot and younger brother Perry. Chuck was a noted all-around athlete in school, attending
the University of Arizona on a full football scholarship before coming to his senses and
transferring to the golf team. He graduated from Northern Arizona University and went on to
earn a PhD in Economics at the University of Texas Austin.
Chuck joined the faculty at the University of Illinois Medical School in Springfield, and in 1984
the faculty at the University of Texas School of Public Health in Houston. He rose to Professor of
Management and Policy Sciences, making significant international contributions in the field of
epilepsy self-management and the public costs of epilepsy. He also studied disparities in access
to health care, health care program evaluation and policy analysis. He received awards for
excellence in community service, scholarship, teaching and research, co-wrote six books and
authored numerous book chapters and reports, and served on international commissions.
In retirement he moved to Canyon Lake in the Texas Hill Country and spent as much time as
possible doing and promoting what he loved most -- sailing. He became active in the Lake
Canyon Yacht Club, serving in various leadership positions.
Chuck was stubbornly optimistic, a great storyteller, and skilled collaborator. He worked hard to
make sure family and friends had a good time because that made him happy. His generosity of
spirit led him to act with kindness and to celebrate the success of others without envy or
resentment.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Laurie McGill, his son Matthew Begley and wife Brooke
McFadden, daughter Lisa Begley and husband Phillip Butcher, grandchildren Elise and Benjamin
Begley, brother Perry Begley and cousins, nieces and nephews.
Memorial gifts may be sent to the Epilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas or to the charity
of your choice.
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