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Charles Irving Obituary

Charles G. Irving, Jr.

Raleigh

On November 7, 1926 in the prosperous era preceding the Great Depression, Charles G. Irving, Jr., the only son of the late Charles G. Irving and Callie Brown Irving, was born in Raleigh, NC. He departed this life on March 6, 2014.

Charles G. Irving, Jr. was formally educated in the Raleigh Public School System. He graduated from Washington High School in 1944, having been a member of the school band, president of the senior class and editor-in-chief of the 1944 yearbook, "The Echo". His college career at Howard University, in Washington, DC was interrupted by World War II military service, where he attained the rank of Master Sergeant. Irving returned to Howard, graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in 1949. He joined the Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in 1945 and later became a lifetime member of the organization. His local membership was with Iota Iota Chapter. In 1950 when Irving's Reserve Unit was activated, he returned to military service in the Korean Conflict, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant.

Charles G. Irving, Jr.'s professional career spanned more than 40 years of association with Irving-Swain Press, Inc. where he was Production Manager and Vice-President of the history- making firm operating in Raleigh for nearly 60 years.

Irving was a life-long member of Davie Street Presbyterian Church, having been christened there in 1927. He served as a Sunday School Superintendent and was a member of the Presbyterian Men's Council. Additionally, he was very involved in many community activities which included: the Washington High School Alumni Association and the Charles T. Norwood Post of American Legion. Charles G. Irving, Jr. had a sustained interest in the history of his community and in the photographic documentation of events. He contributed his services and photographs to many organizations and events.

His deep interest in the cultures of diverse people led him to travel extensively in North America, Central and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia including a family trip around the world in 1970 and a trip to China in 2008.

Charles G. Irving, Jr. is survived by his wife, Ophelia (née McAlpin) to whom he was married in August 1955 in Gadsden, AL.; his daughter Cyretha Irving and her husband Oliver Knobloch of Crans-près-Céligny, Switzerland; his sisters Vivian E. Irving and Florence Irving Francis of Raleigh, NC; his nephews Charles T. Francis (Marvea) of Raleigh; Garrick C. Francis (Sheila) of Washington, DC; his nieces Patricia M. Kimble (Daniel) of Gadsden, AL and Renée M. Alford (Rodney) of Huntsville, AL. He is also survived by great-nieces and great-nephews; one great- great niece, and many cousins.

A celebration of the life of Charles G. Irving, Jr. is scheduled for 12 noon Wednesday, March 12, 2014 at Davie Street Presbyterian Church, Raleigh, NC. The memorial services of Iota Iota Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity will be held at 11:00 am, followed by family visitation.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News & Observer on Mar. 11, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Irving

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March 29, 2014

My sincere sympathy to the family. It is a blessing Charles lived a long life because there are many people who may never see his age. May Almighty God who provide comfort to us (2 Cor 1:3)be with you during this difficult time of your life.

March 18, 2014

We were sadden to learn of the passing of our friend Charles.
Our families have enjoyed a friendship, linked inextricably by history for a span of ninety-four years. Charles's passing causes us to reflect on the many contributions that he and the Irving family have made to the civic, political and cultural life of our city. The African-American community is the greatest beneficiary of his well lived life. Please accept our Heartfelt Sympathy in the loss of your husband, father, brother and uncle. Margaret B. Lindsey and family

Pondories Ellison- Edmunds

March 17, 2014

For a Beautiful life that was shared with many people of all persuasions of life. May the Peace of God rest with your family.Elder Pondories Edmunds Cola,SC

Albert Whitaker, Jr.

March 14, 2014

Mr. Irving is a legend. Our families were friends, particularly Charles and his buddy, Collins. His energy in our community will be missed but his aura will last forever.

Debra Nichols

March 13, 2014

The staff and volunteers of the NC Museum of History express our sincerest sympathy to Ophelia and the entire family. Charles and Ophelia have been supporters of the museum for many years and we are truly saddened by his passing. And we are most grateful for his efforts to preserve the history of Raleigh.

Howard and Ella Rodgers

March 12, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

My last visit with Uncle Charles

Maryanna Quigless

March 12, 2014

I am incredibly saddened by Uncle Charles' passing. You were an incredible man and I will miss you! My love and prayers to Auntie O, Cyretha and the family.

James Otis Autry & Family

March 12, 2014

My deepest condolences to the family. May God comfort you during this time of grief.

Ruby Greene

March 11, 2014

What a great historian! His "archives" probably rival the Smithsonian.He kept abreast of current events as well. He will truly be missed.

Alfus Cleo Irving

March 11, 2014

2nd cous.

Dora Irving-Jones

March 11, 2014

Cousin Charles, You will be missed. Your love, kindness and generosity will never be forgotten. You really enjoyed your life and enhanced everyone around you. Thank you for sharing the memories.

Jimmy McAlpine

March 11, 2014

Charles Irving-Family Man,Great Man, Great Husband, Great Father, and Great Community Pillow in Raleigh! A reflection and reference to Charles Irving from John 16:25-27. Charles Irving gave "Peace" thru Truth in his work and life encounters: Peace to Charles meant-A Product of Faith, Hope and Love." And really that's what peace is and what Uncle Charles represented. In John 16:25-27, this passage really comes as one unit and it talked about the void that is in man's soul. The Bible also states about the fact that in every man's soul there are three missing ingredients and they are just these three that are discussed here by Jesus...love, faith and hope. That men desire something to love and be loved by, something and someone to believe in, and something to hope for and apart from these three things man has no reason to exist, he has no escape from the human dilemma. Life becomes a meaningless treadmill. Uncle Charles represented "Peace" with GOD, his wife "Sister", His daughter Cyretha, his sisters and Family/Friends. You will be missed because you gave Love, Faith and Hope! You will be always LOVED! Jimmy

Ashleigh Kimble

March 11, 2014

Uncle Charles you will truly be missed! Your life was full of great/amazing memories, experiences, and people. I'm so glad you were able to travel with us to Pasadena, CA to see the Crimson Tide win their 13th National Championship in 2009. We all had a wonderful time!

Love, Ashleigh (great niece)

Jeannette Fields-Harris

March 11, 2014

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Joseph Holt

March 10, 2014

Sincerest Condolences. Mr. Irving was a genuine friend to all and always an inspiring example of only the best in terms of character, good will and congeniality toward others, decorum, and professionalism. Tremendous presence as a first-rate gentleman. He will be greatly missed.

Chie M Handy

March 10, 2014

Mr. Irving was a cherished family friend and contributed so much to the Raleigh community. The loss of his erudite wisdom and substance as a good and decent man will be deeply felt by all. Sincerest condolences to the entire Irving family.

Nathala deaver-shabowich

March 10, 2014

Charles, Jr., you will be missed....

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