In the early morning of September 1, 2026 heaven welcomed Charlene Kuuleilokelani Muehlstein home after a life well lived and a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Charlene had a beautiful soul filled with graciousness, intelligence, humility and Jesus. Her presence was incredibly warm and welcoming. She had an authentic interest in people, gave freely of her time, offered unconditional love and acceptance, and served others through consistent small acts of kindness and consideration. She was a light in this world to all who knew her.

Charlene was 48 years old. She was born on January 22, 1978 to parents Moku and Sally Kau. She spent her early life in Pasco, Washington (with short stints in Vancouver, WA and Duluth, MN) before her family relocated to Leander, Texas. She grew up in a close-knit family with her brothers Rocky, Bronc and Noah.

Charlene was a brilliant and stellar student. She attended private Christian schools K-12, where she would graduate as Valedictorian of her class. These early years grew her passion for literacy. She immersed herself in books and learning. She graduated with honors from Texas A&M in 1999 with a Bachelor’s degree in English and History. Later, she received her Masters in Library Science from Sam Houston State University. She was a lifelong reader and lover of words.

Charlene spent her entire 27 year career at Bryan ISD. This was intentional. She lived in Bryan, her children attended school in Bryan, and she wanted to have an impact specifically on this community. She started as an 8th grade English Language Arts teacher at Rayburn Middle School at the age of 21 and later transitioned to librarian, her dream job. When professional librarians were phased out of public schools, she became a Master Teacher at Navarro Elementary. This is where she honed her skills in early literacy education that would propel her to the role of Instructional Coach at Johnson Elementary before becoming the English Language Arts and Reading Coordinator for Bryan ISD. Charlene made a lasting impact throughout her career and life. She was loved and well regarded by both students and colleagues.

Charlene was devoted to her family. She took the greatest pleasure in raising and spending time with her children, Chance (27), Creed (21), Noe (19), Ethan (17) and Kai (16). She was the mom that attended every event, participated in all the school activities, helped with the homework, took her kids to church, threw creative themed parties, and had fun with her kids. Charlene married Keith Muehlstein in 2019. He provided a safe and supportive space for Charlene to flourish. They had a genuine love and respect for each other and built a blended family based on these same principles. Charlene was happiest when they were all together.

Charlene’s faith was an essential part of who she was and guided the way she conducted her life. She was a long time member of First Baptist Church of Bryan and cherished her church family. One of her greatest joys was teaching Sunday School to second graders.

Charlene is survived by her husband, Keith Muehlstein; her children Chance Pierce, Creed (Maggie) Pierce, Noe Pierce, Ethan Muehlstein and Kai Pierce; her parents Moku and Sally Kau; her brothers Rocky (Mellissa) Kau, Bronc (Laura) Kau, and Noah (Kimber) Kau. She will also be missed greatly by her in-laws JoAnn and David Muehlstein, Dennis (Jessica) Muehlstein, and Terri (James) Klaiber; her nieces and nephews Ashley, Moku, Ikaika, Sloan, Kailani, Brody, Loke, Gabby, Kyle, Aiden, Josslyn, Landon and Carson; and many extended family members and friends.

Charlene was preceded in death by her grandparents, Rudy and Myrna (Tutu) Kau and Ed and Gloria (Bama) Weinrich.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 7, at 11am at First Baptist Church of Bryan, 3100 Cambridge Dr, Bryan, TX 77802. Visitation will be prior to the funeral from 9:00 am to 10:30 am. A private burial with family will be held afterward at Mount Calvary Cemetary.

In lieus of flowers please consider a gift to the Bryan ISD Education Foundation in Charlene’s name.