Lincolnton, GA.
Charles L. Estes, Jr., 93, beloved father and grandfather passed away in the comfort of home after a short illness, surrounded by family and friends.
The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, December 2, 2016 at the Lincolnton United Methodist Church with Rev. John M. "Dusty" Rhodes and Rev. Deborah Griffith officiating. Interment with military honors will be in the Lincolnton City Cemetery.
Charles, a lifelong native of Lincoln County, was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Elizabeth B. Estes; his daughter Patricia Lane Estes; and his son Steven Harper Estes. After graduation from
Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina, he served his country in WWII as a sergeant in Italy with the 337
th
Infantry, 85
th
Division, Company A, where he received a Purple Heart.
Charles was a career postal service employee and brought smiles, laughter and a helping hand to all on his rural route.
Charles was famous in Lincoln County for his quick wit, love of words, phenomenal memory and ability to crack a joke with anybody in any situation. Driving his tractor, crossword puzzles, football, quiz shows and attending WWII reunions were favorite hobbies. He was a faithful usher and longtime member of Lincolnton United Methodist Church and a continuous member of the American Legion for more than 60 years. He was chairman of the Lincoln County Board of Education for more than 20 years and a good baseball player.
Survivors include his son, Charles L. Estes III and daughter in law Connie Lo Estes, Marlborough, MA;
three grandchildren, Margaret Mei Estes, Marlborough, MA, Isabel Brown Estes, Brooklyn, NY, and Benjamin Lo Estes, Minneapolis, MN; his daughter Priscilla A. Estes and son in law Paul G. Wulfing, Yardley, PA; nieces Elizabeth Hayward , Connie Brown,
and Susan Johnson, Fairmont, NC; and his loving friend Rita Partlow, Lincolnton, GA,
who was by his side the last few years.
A member of the Greatest Generation, Charles will be greatly missed.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lincolnton United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 85, Lincolnton, GA. 30817.
Visitation will be from 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday, December 1, 2016 at Rees Funeral Home, 195 Peachtree St., Lincolnton, GA. 706-359-3222
