Charles W. Shealy

Charles W. Shealy

Charles William Shealy of Leesville, SC, went to his eternal home in Heaven on Thursday, August 28, 2025. Surrounded by all of his children, he passed away peacefully at Lexington Medical Center in Lexington, SC. Charles was born in Leesville, SC, on January 27, 1945, to Jefferson Levi and Ellaree Shealy. He attended Gilbert High School, where he met his future wife, Carolyn.

After graduating from high school in 1963, Charles enlisted in the United States Navy. His first duty station was in Adak, Alaska. From there, he sent Carolyn her engagement ring—tucked inside a cigar box. They were married in June of 1966 and immediately moved to Puerto Rico. During his 22-year Navy career, Charles and Carolyn lived in Puerto Rico, Japan, Virginia, Florida, Hawaii, Maryland, and then returned to Hawaii and Maryland before his retirement in June 1985. After retiring from the Navy, Charles continued his service to the community by working for Lexington County. For the last 12 years he has lived in his home on Cedar Grove Road with his grandson Nicholas and his family. He could be found doing odd jobs around the house, mowing the lawn, and enjoying watching the news from his chair. Charles was a man of deep faith and conviction. His testimony began with his mother faithfully taking him and his siblings to church. Charles and Carolyn made a public profession of faith together at Lanakila Baptist Church in Waipahu, Hawaii. He loved the local church and missions, supporting both faithfully—often quietly. Charles was a member of First Baptist Church of Lexington. Although his health prevented him from attending in person, he faithfully watched services online with his dear friend Carol. Charles was deeply devoted to his country. He honorably fulfilled the oaths he took to serve, working as a Cryptologic Technician for the National Security Agency. Known as “Chuck” to his comrades, he proudly carried the identity of a veteran and never missed an opportunity to connect with a fellow veteran—often striking up conversations at Lowe’s or Walmart. Charles loved his family dearly. He was immensely proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, praying for them constantly. He was preceded in death by his faithful wife, Carolyn; his grandson Benjamin; his great-granddaughter Madelyn Kate. He was also preceded in death by his brother Jeff Shealy and sister Betty Bedenbaugh. He is survived by his children Lorie Caratenuto (Bill), David Shealy, Jill Walden (Buddy), and Jennifer Howard (Christopher); his grandchildren: Ashlynn (Matt), Adam, Katie (Matt), Nicholas (Maryah), Joshua (Ashley), Samuel (Gabriella), Sarah, Mykah, and Abigail; his great-grandchildren: Liam, Graham, Addison, Emma, and Ezra; and an adopted granddaughter, Kendra. His siblings Jimmy Shealy (Pat) and Becky Hall (Ralph) and many nieces, nephews and dear family. Charles has left a great void, but his prayers and legacy of faith will continue to impact his family. Visitation with the family will be at Barr-Price Funeral Home in Leesville on Monday, September 1, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at Shiloh United Methodist Church in Gilbert on Tuesday, September 2, at 11:00 a.m. The family would like to thank Amedisys Hospice, the nursing staff of the Cardiology Unit at Lexington Medical Center, Dr. Norton’s team at Lexington Heart and Vascular, and Fresenius Kidney Care of Newberry for their great care and compassion. Memorials may be made in Charles’ honor to the Mission Fund at First Baptist Church of Lexington, 415 Barr Road, Lexington, SC 29072, The National Kidney Foundation, or the American Diabetes Association.

Online register at Barr-Price.com

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