WILMINGTON — Charles White Hollis, age 90, of Wilmington, NC, passed away on Friday, March 8, 2024. He is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy, of 66 years, son, Chuck Hollis (Wendi), daughter, Beth Key (Barry), 3 grandchildren, Jon Hollis, Jordan Bell (Brett), Hannah Key (Kayla), and 2 great-grandchildren, Penelope and Jonathan Bell.
Charlie was born in Wilmington, NC on December 5, 1933 to the late Bob and Hattie Hollis. He grew up on Masonboro Sound and enjoyed many water sports such as boating and skiing. He attended New Hanover High School and graduated in 1952. After graduation, he attended Wilmington College and NC State University.
He began his career with the US Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington Branch in 1958 and retired in 1989 as Chief, Regulatory Branch. He was instrumental in the creation and organization of the Regulatory Branch which regulates the activities in the waters and wetlands. He served on numerous national task forces which developed the policies and regulations of the Regulatory program. He served as an advisor to the Assistant Secretary of the Army at the Pentagon from 1986-1989 working on regulatory matters. For his outstanding accomplishments and dedication to public service, he was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Award.
Charlie loved his family more than anything. Dorothy was the love of his life and they spent as much time together as possible, whether traveling, eating out, or spending time with family and friends. In their earlier years, family time meant camping or boating with other church families at Masonboro Island. Charlie was actively involved in his children and grandchildren’s lives. He loved to attend their band concerts, piano recitals, graduations and sporting events. He loved celebrating their successes with them and was always willing to help with any project or just give his fatherly advice. He was selfless in that he always put others before himself.
Charlie was a member of Winter Park Baptist Church for 53 years where he served as Church Moderator, Sunday School Teacher, Adult Choir Member, and various other church committees.
The Celebration of Life Service will be in the Sanctuary on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 2 p.m. with a visitation/reception following in the Community Center.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Winter Park Baptist Church Music Ministry, 4700 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington, NC 28403.
