Charles Lenoir passed away peacefully at home on July 3, 2025. He was born at Fort Defiance in Caldwell County on July 10,1934 to Faunie Turnmire Lenoir and Andrew Lyndon Lenoir, Sr.  He attended Happy Valley Elementary School until fifth grade and then continued his studies through high school graduation at The Patterson School. It was at Patterson School where Charlie developed a love for the outdoors, working every day in the dairy barn that was located on campus.

He met his future wife, Shirley Greene, at age 19 on a blind date. They married in 1954 and had three daughters: Laura, Jean and Beth.

Charles served his country in the Navy, stationed out of Norfolk, VA.  At the completion of those four years, he headed back to North Carolina and to Happy Valley where he had been raised. He and Shirley raised their daughters there, too, as well as countless dogs, cats, cattle and whatever the girls would bring home as pets. He had a love for all animals throughout his life.

Charles was a devout Christian and an accomplished guitarist with a beautiful tenor voice. He and Shirley would often sing for the congregation at church.

He spent most of his life working as an automotive mechanic, with front end alignment his specialty.  Many times he'd donate his services to those who couldn't afford it.

Charles is preceded in death by his wife Shirley, his parents, and his two siblings (Lundie Lenoir and Andrew Lyndon Lenoir, Jr.).

He is survived by his daughters: Laura Sheaffer, Jean Lenoir and Beth Lenoir, son-in-law Jay Sheaffer, grandchildren Caleb Elledge, Bryant Sheaffer (wife - Hanna Sheaffer) and Brittany Swope (husband - Zach Swope) and great-grandchildren Hannah and Jack Elledge and Owen Sheaffer.

A grave-side service, presided over by his best friend Bob Church, will be held at the cemetery at Fort Defiance on Friday, July 18th at 11:00 am.

Laura, Jean and Beth would like to thank their cousin Skip Lenoir, Charlie's good friends Bob Church and Michael Bell, and neighbor Steve Larson for all their support during their father's illness.

Family condolences may be left at Greer-McElveen Funeral Home, Lenoir, NC.

In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree or donating to an animal rescue group of your choice.