Charles "Chuck" Stark Craddock, III

Charles Stark Craddock III, lovingly known as “Chuck,” entered into his eternal rest on March 8, 2026, at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home. Chuck was born in Anson County, North Carolina on April 9, 1944, to Charles S. Craddock, Jr. and Ann Seigler Craddock Crews. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, craftsmanship, and deep love for family and friends. As a proud patriot, Chuck honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1963 to 1967, including combat service with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vietnam from 1965 to 1966 as a paratrooper. His bravery, discipline, and selfless devotion reflected a lifelong commitment to his country, his duty, and unwavering integrity. Chuck devoted 36 years of faithful service to Norfolk Southern Railroad, retiring as a train engineer. He carried that same work ethic into every part of his life, always willing to lend a helping hand and fix what others could not. Chuck found his greatest joy in his workshop, a place filled with the hum of welding, the rhythm of repairs, and the satisfaction of creating with his own hands. There, he could be found talking, laughing, and sharing stories with his buddies, his eyes twinkling with humor and warmth. He delighted in patiently teaching his grandkids the skills he had mastered over a lifetime, showing them not just how to weld or repair, but how to approach life with patience, care, and creativity. Every project, every shared laugh, every story carried his gratitude for God’s blessings. Chuck’s gentle wisdom, welcoming spirit, and boundless kindness made everyone who entered his workshop and his life feel cherished, encouraged, and at home. As a devoted member of Bethany Baptist Church, Chuck faithfully served as a deacon and trustee, participated on the properties committee, delivered Meals on Wheels, and joyfully shared the gospel and his love of Jesus through the handyman ministry. His servant’s heart and steady presence were a blessing to his church family and community. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend who will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. In addition to his parents, Chuck was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy Kay Welborn Craddock; his brother, Thomas Craddock; and his sisters, Deborah Jane Creech and Margaret Ann Craddock. He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Audrey Jane Craddock; his daughter, Shannon Craddock Furches (husband, Brian); his five treasured grandchildren who brought him endless joy and pride, Cameron (wife, Cassie), Emma, Hunter (fiancé, Maggie), Allie, and Luke Furches; his beloved siblings, John Craddock, and Rachel Lakey; Jane’s stepson, Richard Allen Necessary; along with many dear extended family members and friends who were blessed by his kindness, guidance, and love. Though our hearts mourn his passing, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and take comfort in knowing Chuck now rests in the presence of his Lord and Savior, what a glorious moment! His life was a testimony of faith, service, loyalty, and love, a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 6:00 PM Thursday evening, March 12, 2026, at Bethany Baptist Church, 600 Old Hollow Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27105 with Rev. Cameron Furches, Dr. Brad Stamey and Rev. Brian Alverson officiating. Chuck always enjoyed fellowship around the table and having a good meal. The family warmly invites all who loved him to join in this gathering following the service to share memories, stories, and fellowship. A committal service with military rites will be conducted at 11:00 AM Friday, March 13, 2026, at Gardens of Memory in Walkertown

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23