Charles Shirley

Charles Thomas Shirley, 89, of Wilson, NC, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025.

Born in Walstonburg, NC on August 6, 1935, Charles dedicated his life to education, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues throughout his distinguished career.

Charles was a beloved teacher and administrator, known for his unwavering commitment to fostering a love of learning and providing guidance to generations of young minds. He approached his work with passion, patience, and a genuine belief in the potential of every individual. His dedication extended beyond the classroom, as he served in various administrative roles, always advocating for the best interests of both students and faculty. Even in retirement, Charles remained a staunch supporter of education and cherished the connections he made throughout his years of service.

He will be deeply missed by his surviving family, including his brother Don R. Shirley and his wife Brenda B. Shirley. He was a cherished uncle to his niece Pam Gill and her husband John Gill, and her daughters Kaley Hess (married to Hayes Hess) and Emily Almond, and John's children Madison Barbour (married to Nathan Barbour and their daughter Haislee Barbour), John Austin Gill, and Timothy Gill. He also leaves behind his nephew Jason Shirley and his wife Shelby Shirley, and their sons Jack Shirley and Anderson Shirley. Each of them held a special place in Charles's heart, and he took great joy in their lives and accomplishments.

Charles was the “crazy” uncle, never failing to provide a good laugh and a fun time. He loved books, movies, music, art, history, antiques, and just a lazy car ride around Wilson County or sharing a hot dog at Dick’s. Memories of Christmas Eves, sleepovers, watching Saturday Night Live when long past bedtime, and searching the Wilson Daily Times for movie times will never be forgotten and cherished forever. Thank you Charles for loving us like your own. Your impact on our lives is evident in all that we do. We love you!

A graveside service will be held at Evergreen Memorial Park in Wilson on Saturday, April 19, at 3:00 pm to celebrate Charles's life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Charles' memory to Transitions LifeCare of Raleigh for giving Charles exceptional and loving care, and to Wilson County’s Friends of the Library, an organization that held special significance for him. Donations may be mailed to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh NC 27607 or to Wilson County Public Library, 249 Nash St W., Wilson, NC 27893. Alternatively, please visit https://www.transitionslifecare.org/donate/ or https://www.wilsoncountypubliclibrary.org/about-us/donations for more details.

Charles Thomas Shirley will be remembered for his dedication, his generosity, his humor, and most importantly his love for his family and friends. His impact on the lives he touched will continue to be felt for years to come.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr N, Wilson, NC (252) 237-7171; www.wilsonmemorialservice.com