Charles William Leathers Sr.

Charles W. Leathers, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully departed this life on July 29, 2025, at the age of 88.

Funeral service will be held Monday, August 11, 2025 at noon in the chapel of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.  Interment will follow at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.  Visitation will be held Monday from 11 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. at the funeral home.

Born on June 26, 1937, to mother Pansy Wilkins Leathers and father James Leathers. Charles built a life centered on love, loyalty, hard work, and deep devotion to family and community. On May 23, 1957, he married the love of his life, Bessie Frances Jones. Together, they created a beautiful legacy of five children: Portia Leathers Speight (Ricky), Linda Denise Leathers, Colleen Leathers Jackson, Charles Leathers, Jr., and Lisa Monique Leathers Ellis.

Charles’s love extended beyond his immediate family. He was a devoted brother to five sisters—Miss Patricia Leathers, Miss Mary Ann Leathers, Miss. Gwendolyn Benneham, Miss. Linda Cadlett, and Miss. Diana Patterson—and one brother, Theodore Roosevelt Wilkins (Jackie), all of Durham. He was preceded in death by his brothers Robert Leathers, Richard Leathers, and James Leathers.

Affectionately known as “grandad”, Charles was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. His heart was big enough to embrace numerous nieces and nephews as his own, and his home was always open—a sanctuary of wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love.

After joining the United States Army, Charles returned home and began a long and industrious career. He spent many years with Liggett & Myers Tobacco Company and later pursued his entrepreneurial spirit by founding CWL Professional Floor Services. As the proud owner and operator, he made customer service the cornerstone of his business. His dedication and work ethic also led him to serve in roles with Scribb and NC Mutual.

A man deeply committed to community service, Charles was a dedicated and long-standing member of the distinguished Epicurean Civic Club, which he joined in December 1979. Through this organization, he worked alongside fellow members to uplift others, championing youth outreach and organizing events that brought joy to countless children and families in the Goldsboro community.

Charles was passionate about sports and never missed a Duke Blue Devils basketball game. He was also an enthusiastic supporter of Goldsboro High School’s athletic programs, actively participating in the Booster Club and traveling far and wide to cheer on the team. And we must not forget his love for the Commander football team (Redskins), A football league he supported for more than sixty years.

Those who knew Charles remember him as a go-getter, a provider, a pillar of strength, and a man of quiet grace. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched with his kindness, determination, and unwavering love.

A repast will be held after the burial at The Venue, 1316 W Grantham Street in Goldsboro, NC 27530.

Professional services entrusted and in the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.

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