Murray "Charles" King Sr.

Murray “Charles” King, Sr., 83, of Clarkton went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, while at Lower Cape Fear Lifecare in Wilmington. Charles was born in Bladen County on December 20, 1941, son of the late Lester Helton King and Rannie Kinlaw King. He was preceded in death by his parents;  brothers, Nash King and Lester King Jr.; sisters; Ernestine K. Davis, Rachel K. Russ, Thelma K. Davis, Ruthie K. Byrd, and Wilma K. Bedsole. 

He was the devoted husband to Nannette King of the home, loving father of Murray Charles King Jr. (Jennifer), Jeffery Lennon King (Caroline), Angela King Cashwell (Gary), and Shannon Rose King-Fowler (Philip), cherished brother of William “Bill” King (Nancy), and Paula Zimberg and the proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Charles spent a lifetime devoting his time and energy to his family and music. They meant the world to him, and he relentlessly displayed his dedication to both Christ and them by living the true example of a man of faith. He had a talent of music which enabled him to play the mandolin, the guitar, the Bass, and the harmonica. During his life, he was a member of two gospel singing groups spreading the word through song. 

Charles was blessed to have walked through this life with good health, and he didn’t waste a moment of the time God had given him. He read his bible daily and took every opportunity given to shower his wife, his family, as well as his friends with compassion. He kept the scripture of 1Timothy 6: 18-19 “That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” His living example will not end here for it will be carried on through the legacies of those he leaves behind.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 20, 2025 from 1-2 pm at Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home with a funeral service immediately following at 2 pm with the Reverend Murray King, Reverend Leroy Wright and Reverend David Little officiating. Services will conclude with a burial in the Salem Pentecostal Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery in Clarkton.

"I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?"   John 11:25-26

Thank you to everyone for your prayers, calls, cards, food, and love shown to our family during this sickness and loss. Your kindness is greatly appreciated. Our hearts are grateful for your love and friendship!