Charles Acellam Ocitti, 47, passed away on July 6, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
Born in Kampala, Uganda, to Jimmy and Mary Ocitti, Charles lived a life filled with adventure, compassion, and dedication.
Charles attended Alberdingk Thijm College and Rivers International School Arnhem. He earned his MBA in Finance from the University of Surrey and spent many years living and working abroad, including in England, Holland, and Germany. His time overseas was filled with cherished memories, especially playing basketball with his brother from sunup to sundown, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life.
Charles had a lifelong love for sports, proudly cheering for the Boston Celtics and the New England Patriots. He also loved music, especially Afro beats and reggae, which always lifted his spirits and filled the room wherever he was.
From an early age, Charles showed an entrepreneurial spirit. As a young boy in Uganda, he started his first business—a roadside shop he ran alongside his mother. That same drive and ambition carried him far, leading him to a career working with various international nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of others, as well as roles with the City of Boston. He also pursued entrepreneurial ventures, including investments in real estate and running a construction business.
For the past 8.5 years, his daughter Grace Ocitti has been the center of Charles’ universe and the light of his life. Everything he did and all that he worked for was with Grace in mind, which gave his life great meaning and purpose.
More than his professional achievements, Charles will be remembered for his humor, kindness, and unwavering loyalty. He was a big brother in every sense—protector, confidant, and friend. His warmth, generosity, and quiet strength touched all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Grace Ocitti; his parents, Jimmy and Mary Ocitti; his siblings, Stanley Ocitti, Susan Ocitti Mahoney, and Marc Bright; and his cherished nephew and nieces: Idris, Sanaa, Anaya, and Elora. He will be deeply missed by his entire family and countless friends around the world.
A service will be held at the A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home, 865 Main Street, Malden on Friday July 18th at 11:00am. Visitation will be held from 10:00am-11:00am prior to the service. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.
“Forever in our hearts.”