Charles Ray Crabtree

Charles Ray Crabtree, age 85, of Statesville passed away at his home on November 13, 2020.
He was born June 4, 1935 in Charlotte, North Carolina the son of the late James Samuel Crabtree and Ola Mae Ewing Crabtree. He is also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 42 years, Patricia S. Crabtree and a sister, Colleen Ligon.
Charlie graduated as the first full 3 year class of East Mecklenburg High School in Charlotte in 1953. He was drafted by the Washington Senators Baseball Team following high school but declined the offer to accept a full scholarship to play for Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. Charlie enjoyed his employment with Eastern Airlines for 35 years until his retirement as District Manager of Technology. He was a member and layman of Catawba United Methodist Church and a man of deep faith. He sang for years with the Friends of Christ gospel group, enjoyed playing golf, spending time in the garden and antiques. Charlie had a wonderful sense of humor and loved his family deeply; he will be missed by all.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Samuel Charles Crabtree and wife Donna; grandsons, Benjamin Jordan Crabtree and Christopher Charles Crabtree; great grandchildren, Charlie and Tucker Crabtree; sister, Pamela Crabtree Stilwell (Fred); nieces, Valerie Riggins, Elizabeth Ligon and Carrie Stilwell; nephew, Joe Stilwell; great niece, Lindsey Shaw; and a great nephew, Matthew Riggins.
A graveside service will be held 10 AM on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at Catawba United Methodist Church Cemetery, 207 E. Central Avenue, Catawba, NC 28609 with Pastor Glenda Bennett officiating.
Please share memories and condolences at www.nicholsonfunerals.com