Charles Henry Stevens, 85, of Pinehurst, NC passed away Monday March 19, 2018 at his residence.
He was born February 23, 1933 in Bladen County, NC to the late Florence and James Stevens. He was preceded in death by a brother James Thaddeus Stevens, and two sisters Catherine J. Stevens Carlson and Mary Stevens Orci.
Charles was raised at the Presbyterian Orphans’ Home at Barium Springs near Statesville, NC where he graduated from high school. After high school, Charles went on to serve his country as a member of the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, Charles attended University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill where he met Rachel Humphries. Charles and Rachel married and raised three children, living in Charlotte, New York City, Washington D.C., Southern Pines, and Hillsborough. In the late 1970’s, Charles established Nolarec Industries in Aberdeen, NC where he spent the last four decades. Charles was a serial entrepreneur who spent his life creating businesses including restaurants, hotels, diverse retail stores and finally multiple manufacturing businesses. Most of his family members and many of his friends worked alongside Charles in his businesses throughout the years. Charles had the uncanny ability to see possibilities and big ideas and not much compunction about bending rules. Funny stories about his life and antics abound. He loved his family, especially his four grandchildren, and he rarely missed a family gathering.
He is survived by his wife Rachel Stevens of Chapel Hill, NC; a daughter Linda Williamson and husband William of Orange County, NC; two sons Doug Stevens and wife Diane of Moore County, NC and Nelson Stevens and wife Catherine of Alton, VA; two sisters Peggy Moore (Charles) of Washington, NC and Betsy Tilley (Ray) of Granite Falls, NC; four grandchildren Leslie D. Stevens, Noelle D. Stevens, C. Henry Stevens, and Samuel G. Williamson; and longtime family friend Brenda Davis of Moore County, NC and several nieces and nephews.
An interment will be held on April 15 at 2PM at Mount Horeb Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Council, Bladen County, North Carolina.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Hope Alliance [which today operates the home for children at Barium Springs] https://www.childrenshopealliance.org/donate/
To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Charles Henry Stevens, please visit Boles’ Tribute Store.
Online condolences: BolesFuneralHome.com.
Mr. Stevens’ family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers at Sandhills Sentinel.
