John Charles Johnson

John Charles "Charlie" Johnson entered the presence of his Lord and Savior on January 20, 2026, closing a life marked by devotion, integrity, and deep love for his family and faith.

Born on September 30, 1938, at Wayne Memorial Hospital in Goldsboro, NC, Charlie was the son of Lucy Oliver Johnson and John Marion Johnson. He grew up in Mt. Olive, NC, where he graduated from Mt. Olive High School in 1956. He went on to attend Hampden-Sydney College, earning his Bachelor of Science in Math & Science in June of 1960.

Charlie began his career that same year with Carolina Telephone and Telegraph Company as a management trainee. In April 1961, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the Army Reserve, spending sixteen months on active duty at Ft. Jackson, SC, and Ft. Bragg, NC. He was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division and continued his service as an officer in reserve units in New Bern and Morehead City until 1972.

Returning to Carolina Telephone in New Bern in 1962 proved to be a turning point in his life. It was there he met Patricia Ann Wilkinson, the woman who would become his beloved wife. They married in November 1964 and were blessed with two children, John Charles (Chuck) Johnson Jr. and Elizabeth Worth (Beth) Johnson. Throughout his thirty-nine-year career, Charlie served the telephone company with dedication, holding management positions in New Bern, Fayetteville, Wilson, and Tarboro.

Charlie was preceded in death by Patricia, his first great love. Though he lost her far too soon, he often said he was blessed beyond measure to experience love twice in his lifetime. When Nelda Holt Cabell entered his life, their families blended seamlessly, creating a wide and joyful circle of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren bound together by love, affection, and shared traditions. After 27 years of marriage and renewed companionship, Nelda, too, passed before him, a loss he carried with quiet strength. Through every joy and sorrow, Charlie's steadfast faith and unwavering devotion to his family remained the steady foundation of his life.

A man of many interests, Charlie found peace and purpose in the outdoors. He cherished quiet mornings in a deer stand, watching wildlife move through the woods-taking a shot only when the moment felt just right. His passion for nature led him to serve nearly two decades as President of the Old Church Hunting Club, where friendships grew into lifelong bonds that felt like an extension of family.

Charlie also had a lifelong love of aviation. Owning and flying his small Cessna brought him what he described as the greatest feeling of freedom he ever knew. No matter where he lived, he poured his energy into his community, serving through the Jaycees, Rotary, and Kiwanis clubs. A devoted Methodist from birth, he remained active in the church throughout his life, offering his time and leadership in various administrative roles.

Charlie is survived by his children, Chuck (Pam) and Beth; by Nelda's children, Steve Cabell (Beth) and Debra Bradshaw; and by a large and loving family of grandchildren: Casey Dutton (Dave), John Charles (Trey) Johnson III, Clark Hardy, Justin Bradshaw, Brent Bradshaw (Jameson), Brooks Cabell (Rebecca), Marisa Davis (Sonny), and Madison Cabell. He is also survived by nine great-grandchildren: Clara Charles, Brooks, Lillian, Bennett, Kemp, Staton, Maisey June, Sloan, and Etta.

A true gentleman, Charlie Johnson lived a quiet yet intricate life defined by faith, service, curiosity, and love. His legacy endures in the generations he shaped, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched along the way.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at St. James United Methodist Church, followed immediately by a Celebration of Life Service. Burial will follow at Edgecombe Memorial Park. (In case of inclement weather, please check back prior to date of service to insure definitive arrangements)

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. James United Methodist Church at 211 E St James St, Tarboro, NC 27886