Charlie Guthrie: The Heart of Helping in Marshall, Missouri

In the quiet town of Marshall, Missouri, there’s a man whose steady kindness ripples through his community like a warm breeze. His name is Charlie Guthrie, and for as long as anyone can remember, he’s been the kind of neighbor who simply shows up — shovel in hand, smile on his face, and service in his heart.

Charlie has been named one of Missouri’s Top 20 Most Engaged Neighbors of 2025, a recognition that honors everyday Missourians who strengthen community bonds and inspire others through their acts of kindness. The award is part of Missouri Good Neighbor Week, an initiative of University of Missouri Extension and The Hopeful Neighborhood Project, celebrated annually from Sept. 28 to Oct. 4.

A Life of Quiet Service

For Charlie, being a good neighbor isn’t a program — it’s a way of life. “I’ve always been a helper to neighbors or anyone who needed help,” he said. “It’s just the right thing to do, and I am blessed to be able to do what I do.”

Those who know Charlie say his generosity knows no bounds. His nominator described him as “the man who does everything for our community of senior citizens” — from shoveling snow and trimming bushes to delivering food and checking in on those who live alone.

Even in his later years, Charlie remains a source of strength and reliability. He and his wife care for his nearly 100-year-old mother, who lives just across the street, and he continues to serve as a proud veteran — participating in color guard ceremonies, attending veterans’ funerals, and personally placing over 100 American flags around town on national holidays.

“He’s the first one to help in any situation,” his nominator wrote. “He’s a true patriot and a blessing to all who know him.”

Simple Acts, Lasting Impact

When asked what makes the biggest difference in a neighborhood, Charlie doesn’t hesitate. “Just a simple wave, smile, or doing whatever a neighbor — or anyone — needs. Just being there for them. We all need helpers from time to time.”

His philosophy echoes his lifelong motto: "A stranger is a friend I haven’t met yet. My right hand of fellowship is always extended to others. We all should be helpers and caring people to everyone.”

In a world that often feels hurried and disconnected, Charlie’s consistency stands out. He’s proof that small, steady acts of kindness can knit together the social fabric of a community. His favorite reminder comes from the 4-H motto he grew up with: “To make the best better.”

A Legacy of Connection

For those who want to follow his example, Charlie’s advice is simple and bold: “Just jump in with both feet and go the second mile to be a good friend and helper.”

Whether he’s clearing a sidewalk for a neighbor, raising a flag in honor of a veteran, or sharing a laugh with a friend, Charlie embodies the essence of what it means to be an engaged neighbor — someone whose quiet, consistent acts of care make a community stronger.

Marshall may be a small town, but thanks to neighbors like Charlie Guthrie, it’s filled with big hearts.

Learn more about other award winners in this article.

Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via email at dburton541@yahoo.com or burtond@missouri.edu. You can also visit his website at https://engagedneighbor.com.