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BORN
1957
DIED
2026
Charles Hutchens Obituary
Charles "Leonard" Hutchens, Jr., 68, of Clemmons finished his earthly race and passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on January 29, 2026.
Leonard was born March 29, 1957, to Charles Leonard Hutchens, Sr. and Dorothy Beckner Hutchens. He was a kind and unique man with a passion for learning, teaching, laughing, encouraging and helping people realize their God given potential.
Some will remember him as C.L. Hutchens of the Matthews Police Department, some as "Mr. Hutchens" kindergarten teacher at Clemmons Elementary School, some as doing Bible lessons at Friends Baptist Church, still others will remember Kazoo the Clown, Professor Plato and his amazing fleas, Leonard the magician or Leonard the nice Chaplain that visited them in their nursing home. The place he created the most magical memories was as Santa at the Tanglewood Festival of Lights.
Leonard's passing leaves a huge hole which will not be easily filled.
He is survived by his loving wife, Emily Dusenbury Hutchens; his mother, Dorothy Beckner Hutchens; one daughter, Laura Corbin (Dan); one son, MSgt. Matthew Heide (Rachel) and their two precious boys, Jack and Ben. In addition to his other close family members he will be greatly missed by his church family that have become the center of his life.
Services will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Friends Baptist Church, 1840 Lewisville-Clemmons Road, Clemmons, NC 27012. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m., with the service to follow at 2 p.m. Interment will be at Westlawn Gardens of Memory at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Young at Heart Class, c/o Friends Baptist Church, 1840 Lewisville-Clemmons Road, Clemmons, NC 27012.
Memories and Condolences
for Charles Hutchens
Rosa Posey
March 10, 2026
Emily I was so sorry to hear about Mr hutchens. I was glad to know him at clemmons elementary school. Such a nice kind man and a good man .he will be missed and I am rosa posey the dayporter at ces.you take care I hope to see you soon.emily you are in my thoughts and prayers
Love you miss posey.
Paige White and family
February 7, 2026
Our family loved Mr. Hutchens. We were fortunate enough to have 4 of our family members in his class for Kindergarten. He made a big difference to so
many children as he helped them navigate Clemmons elementary school. We were honored to know him.
C
February 5, 2026
He helped me believe in magic again. Both he and Emily! I will forever be your Sunshine!
Glenda LaPrade
February 5, 2026
I found Leonard to be a very nice person. It was always a pleasure to see our sweet Santa Clause from time to time. My heart breaks for Emily. May the Lord keep his arms wrapped around her.
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Bob Vorbroker
February 5, 2026
Leonard was a kind and wonderful man and educator. I enjoyed working alongside him at Clemmons Elementary. He was beloved by staff, parents and, most importantly, the children. Love and prayers to Emily and his family.
Cindy Zimmerman
February 5, 2026
Emily and family,
Mike and I have you in our prayers and will miss Leonard very much. He always greeted us with a smile and positive remarks. There was no doubt that Jesus was number one in his life.
Much love,
Mike and Cindy Zimmerman
Tina Morgan
February 5, 2026
Such a wonderful kind man with a rich history of life. He ran his race well and gave much joy to everyone in his path. My heart breaks for you Emily
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