Charles Ray Rawls was born on December 28, 1934 to Nick and Myrtle King Rawls in Onslow County. He began his new life with his Lord on October 16, 2023.

Charles gave his life to Jesus at First Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville while a young teenager. He later helped his uncle, Troy King, establish the satellite church of Pineland. Although Presbytery refused initially, Charles became the youngest Elder to ever be ordained by the Presbyterian Church. He was the last one of the "Charter" members of the church to join the saints of heaven.

In 1953, at the young age of 18, Charles married the love of his life, Myrtie Padgett Rawls. Around the age of 20, they were led to start the Pineland Youth Ministry more commonly known as "Young Peoples." This ministry was far-reaching, providing good wholesome fun with Christ at the center, and a safe supervised social gathering place for the young.

Their influence also extended into school events such as prom chaperoning and Disney class trips. Teenagers tended to love them, and truly respect them. Charles always told them and his children, even as an old man, "I still remember how it was to be young."

Charles also enjoyed coaching and one of his greatest coaching feats was taking a rag-tag team of softball players and turning them into a quality team, winning many tournaments throughout eastern North and South Carolina.

Singing, however, was at the heart of Charles' life, He sang at his high school proms, at graduation ceremonies, in high school productions, out in the field "chasing the cows", in the church quartet, in the choir and ended up as the Pineland choir director. His voice would always carry the congregation….that "voice" has already been missed due to his extensive illness.

Charles' legacy will live on unbeknownst to future generations in our community, church, and family. However, God surely greeted him at the gates of heaven with these words: "Well done my good and faithful servant...enter into the joy of your Lord."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Myrtle King Rawls and brothers Ennis, Jerry, Wilbur and Curtis Rawls.

Charles is survived by his loving wife, Myrtie Padgett Rawls. They were married 69 years and 11 months. He is also survived by his cherished three children: Marsha Antinori and husband Billy, Anthony Rawls and wife Lesa, Vicky Padgett and husband Larry. Brother: Donald Rawls and wife Shirley. Grandchildren: Lindsey Rawls, Ashley Cox, Kyle Antinori, Colby Antinori, Cameron Antinori, Cory Padgett. Great grandchildren: Nevaeh, Braylon, Jolene, Brayden, Lainey, Owen, Cagie, and Ryland.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:00 PM at Pineland EPC Presbyterian Church, 205 King Road, Jacksonville, NC. Visitation with family will precede the service from 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM. Graveside service will be at the Rawls Cemetery.