Charles Michael McGee

Judge Charles M. McGee, known to many as Chuck, passed away on February 8, 2026 leaving a legacy of compassion, vision, and dedication to justice and family. Born on June 11, 1945, in Salt Lake City to Ardella and Loring McGee, Chuck’s early years were shaped by his father’s service as an FBI agent. The family later settled in Reno, where Chuck attended local schools before earning his undergraduate degree at Raymond College and his law degree in Denver. He honorably served in Vietnam as Chief of Military Justice for the 101st Airborne Division, earning the Bronze Star for volunteering at firebases in I Corps.

Distinguished Judicial Career

Chuck began his judicial career as Juvenile Master from 1980 to 1984. He went on to serve as District Court Judge from 1984 to 2004, twice holding the position of Chief Judge of the Second Judicial Court and becoming the first judge elected to that office. Upon retirement, he continued his commitment to service as a Senior Judge in rural and Las Vegas courts across Nevada. His influence extended beyond the bench as president of the Nevada District Judges Association and contributor to the National Council’s Best Practices manual—now widely used throughout the United States. He also taught judicial writing at the University of Nevada Reno and earned a master’s degree in judicial studies with a focus on juvenile deficiency from UNR.

The Charles M. McGee Center

A highlight of Chuck’s career was the naming of the Charles M. McGee Center in his honor. The center housed the CHINS (Children in Need of Supervision) program, a testament to Chuck’s belief that troubled youth should not be housed with incarcerated children. The center operated until its funding ended, reflecting his enduring advocacy for vulnerable children.

Personality and Family

Chuck was a man of contrasts: brilliant yet forgetful, kind but often reckless, witty and prone to moments of melancholy. His strategic mind and visionary outlook sometimes gave way to self-doubt, prompting him to seek validation from others. He enjoyed snow and water skiing and excelled at both, despite being accident-prone—a trait that inspired family tales of “McGees,” humorous mishaps unique to him. One cherished memory occurred when his granddaughter explained to her class that “McGee” was the family’s term for doing something silly, and the class adopted it as part of their vocabulary.

Family Dedication

Chuck was married to his beloved wife, Karen, for nearly 50 years. He was the proud father of three children—Julie Diaz (Albert), Dr. Paul Smith (Melissa), and Caelan McGee—and grandfather to Nathan Bennett, Owen Bennett, Madeleine Smith, and Ben Smith. He is also survived by his brother, Dr. Don McGee (Joanne), and their children, Dr. Sarah Finn and Peter McGee. While Chuck took pride in his professional accomplishments, it was his family that he valued above all else.