Charles Joel Stephenson

Charles Joel Stephenson, a cherished pillar of the Seaboard community and a man of deep faith and enduring love for his family, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025, in Greenville, NC. Born on June 8, 1935 in Seaboard, NC, Charles's life was a testament to the values of hard work, dedication, and the importance of family.
Raised by his parents, the late James Frederick Calvin Stephenson and Anna Elizabeth Erekson Stephenson, Charles grew up understanding the value of community and the land. He carried these lessons throughout his life, becoming a respected farmer who worked tirelessly to nurture both the soil and the souls around him. His commitment to his community was further exemplified through his devoted service as a deacon and Sunday School teacher at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, where he touched many lives with his wisdom and compassion.
Charles was a loving husband to his late wife, Evelyn Allen Stephenson, and together they raised a family that was the center of his world. He was a guiding light to his sons, Joey Stephenson and his wife, Carla of Seaboard, NC; Jeff Stephenson of White Lake, NC; and James Stephenson and his wife, Brooke of Jackson, NC. His legacy continues through his three grandchildren, Carly Stephenson Lachapelle and her husband, Copeland; Jon Fredrick Stephenson; and Jenna Claire Stephenson, who will forever cherish the memories and lessons he imparted.
He is also survived by his brother, James Elliot Stephenson and his wife, Lou of Seaboard, NC, who together shared the bond of family and the joys and sorrows of life. Charles was preceded in death by his beloved son, Jon Christopher Stephenson; his sister, Jean Kathryn Fulcher; and his brother, Thomas Wesley Stephenson. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Charles's life was one of purpose and impact. As a farmer, he understood the rhythms of nature and the importance of patience and perseverance. His hands, weathered from years of labor, were also the hands that held his children and grandchildren with tenderness and strength. His work in the fields was paralleled by his cultivation of a strong and loving family, and his dedication to his faith and community.
As we bid farewell to Charles Joel Stephenson, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His journey on this earth has come to a close, but the seeds he planted in the lives of his family, friends, and community will continue to grow and flourish for generations to come. We take comfort in knowing that Charles has been reunited with his loved ones who have gone before him and that his story does not end here, but continues in the legacy he leaves behind.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 2:30 PM with Rev. Larry Godwin officiating at Mount Carmel Baptist Church.
The family will be receiving friends at the church prior to the service from 1:00 PM until service time.
Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mount Carmel Baptist Church, 3578 Mt Carmel Rd, Seaboard, NC 27876.