WILMINGTON — Charles “Stick” Luther Batts Sr., beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on October 1, 2024, at Novant New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
Born on June 10, 1940, in Pender County, he was the son of Chauncey Winford Batts and Opal Gornto Batts. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kay Smart, and his son, Robert Scott Batts, as well as siblings Chauncey Batts, Blaney “Boo” Batts, and Jackie Lea.
Charles is survived by his son, Charles “Chuck” Luther Batts Jr. (wife Kelly), and their cherished children: Brooke Jameson, Jack Charles, and Klaire Kay. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.
Charles experienced the profound loss of his father at a young age, an event that shaped much of his life. Raised by his devoted mother, Opal, who ran a store in Hampstead, he enjoyed a childhood reminiscent of Huckleberry Finn. With friends by his side, Charles camped in the woods, swam in Verny Wells’ pond, and savored watermelons from Jed Sanders’ field. His adventurous spirit found expression in his role as a member of Hampstead’s first Boy Scout Troop, where they famously built a log cabin and explored the world around them, riding bikes across peanut shell mountains and back and forth from Hampstead to downtown Wilmington.
Charles’ passion for history, particularly World War II, began in those formative years and remained a lifelong interest. He was an active student and athlete in high school, earning recognition as “the wittiest” and making his mark on the basketball court as a starter.
In his adult life, Charles married Kay Smart, and together they enjoyed many joyful moments at monthly dinners and dances at the Shrine Club. A proud 32nd degree Mason, he often reminisced about “walking through the hot sands.” He embraced hobbies such as golf, fishing, and playing guitar, sharing these loves with friends and, most importantly, his grandchildren. In his later years, Charles was rarely seen without his beloved dachshund, Stewart, who brought him endless joy and was a fierce protector.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many neighbors, lifelong friends, and the compassionate nurses and doctors who supported Charles and his family during challenging times.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the First Tee of Wilmington, which promotes golf for young people in underserved communities, or to the Shriners Children’s Hospital.
