Charles Rudolph Hadley was born on  January 8, 1914,  in Cairo, Georgia.  He received a B.A. degree from Florida A & M University in 1940 and came to Miami in 1943.  The same year the Florida State Board of Health employed him.  For 39 years he served the Department as VD investigator for Special Health Services.

Throughout his career his supervisors and co-workers recognized him for his extraordinary job knowledge, outstanding relationship with people and his miraculous ability to bring clients under successful treatment  Mr. Hadley's dedication extended beyond working hours to educational and fund raising activities for the Dade County Citizens' VD Public Awareness Committee.

Mr. Hadley was in inspiration to community involvement and grass roots organizations.  He was referred to by most Dade County citizens as "Mr. Civic Worker."  Among his many public appointments were:  State of Florida Special Deputy Constable, Special Assistant to the Secretary of State, Special Advisor to Attorney General Jim Smith, member of the Miami Town Meeting Committee and City of Miami Urban Renewal Committee.  He also served as a member of numerous organizations including the Miami Housing Authority, the City of Miami Service Board, the Economic Opportunity Program, Inc. and Metro's Department of Housing and Urban Development.

For over four decades, Mr. Hadley was a catalyst and a leader in bringing about great strides in human rights and economic opportunity in the black community.  Known to everyone as "Uncle Charlie", he was a mentor to many young civic leaders as well as countless employees of the Health Department.

In 1943, the year that Mr. Hadley was employed by the Department, there were 41 deaths due to syphilis in a population of 272,116.  In 1982, at the time of his retirement, there were 2 deaths due to syphilis in a population of 1,739,000.  During Mr. Hadley's career as a VD investigator he was many advancements in treatment from sulfa drugs to antibiotics and improved diagnostic and case finding methods.

On July 20, 1983, numerous civic and community leaders participated in the dedication of the Charles R. Hadley VD Annex Building.  Mr. Hadley and his wife Ella were present, with over 300 friends and associates in attendance.  It was fortunate that Mr. Hadley's health allowed him to witness and participate in this tribute.

Mr. Hadley's dedication to his community, career and the clients he served continues to inspire us all.

 

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