Dr. Charles Pruden, Jr.

Dr. Charles R. Pruden, Jr., 88, of Wilson, died Thursday, April 14, 2022.

Funeral, Tuesday, 11:00 AM, First United Methodist Church followed by visitation.  Interment, Maplewood Cemetery.

He is survived by his wife, Dr. Evelyn Pet Shepherd Pruden; daughters, Elizabeth “Libby” Pruden George (Larry) of Raleigh and Anne Graham Pruden Brunner (Kathy Cochran) of Wilmington; son, Charles “Chuck” Pruden III (Leigh Ann) of Elm City; grandchildren; Charles “Chip” Pruden IV (Karen), Meredith Aycock (Austin), Graham Rollo (Erin), Logan Brunner, Samantha George and Ryan George; great-grandchildren; Axel Aycock, Charlie Pruden, Skylar Aycock, and Caleb Pruden.

Dr. Pruden was preceded in death by his parents, Charles R. Pruden, Sr. and Annie Lee Evans Pruden

Dr. Pruden attended Duke University and Southern College of Optometry where he was a member of the Omega Delta Fraternity of Optometrists.  Charles was a practicing Optometrist in Wilson from 1959-2013.  He received multiple John D. Costable Distinguished Service Awards in recognition of outstanding dedication and untiring efforts for the advancement of the Profession of Optometry. He was a member for over 50 years of the North Carolina State Optometric Society and served as the Secretary/Treasurer for over 25 years. Dr. Pruden was a charter member of the Wilson Sertoma Club, Past Exalted Ruler of the Wilson Elks Club, President of Wilson Jaycees, Chairman of the Board at Greenfield School and served as Head Usher at First United Methodist Church for many years.

Charles was an avid Duke fan, and season ticket holder.  He enjoyed many years of tailgating at Duke Football games with family and friends.  He never missed the opportunity to cheer his kids on at their various sporting activities.  Charles loved playing the piano and organ, worked many hours in his workshop and loved working in the yard.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First United Methodist Church, PO Box 1423, Wilson, NC 27894.

A Memorial Tree was planted for Dr. Charles

We are deeply sorry for your loss - the staff at Wilson Memorial Service

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