WILMINGTON — Charles Edward Lanier (Chuck), 84, of Wilmington, NC, passed away Saturday March 8, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.
Born on January 3, 1941, in Wilmington, he was adopted in 1943 by his forever family, Ruby Mae Sullivan Lanier and Ebert Lanier, who have since passed. Later in life, Charles was reunited with his birth mother, Evelyn Bordeaux, and his extended family. Evelyn preceded him in death in 2021.
In 1958, Charles proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country with honor before being honorably discharged. Upon returning home to Wilmington, he met the love of his life, Brenda Garner Lanier. They built a beautiful life together, filled with love.
Charles is survived by his wife, Brenda; his daughter, Sheila Ballance (Stephen); three granddaughters, Sabrina Gibbs (Adrian), Sydney Morgan (Bryce), and Shayley Ballance; four great-grandsons, Michael, Austen, Banner, and Walker; and a great-granddaughter expected to arrive in August. He is also survived by his two half-sisters, Patricia Tisdale (Larry) & Nancy Bordeaux, one half-brother, James Caison (Maureen Subora)and many beloved cousins and family members from both his adoptive and birth families.
Charles had a passion for racing. Racing everything from go carts, motorcycles and stock cars. He was known to never miss a nascar race, especially back in the days of Earnhardt as he was his favorite! He was also an avid bass fisherman until an unfortunate accident led to the loss of his eye. Despite this setback, he embraced a new chapter in life, working on bicycles and caring for the many “neighborhood” cats around Monkey Junction.
Charles was a man of many talents, including his ability to always speak his mind. But above all, he was a husband, father, and grandfather who always ensured his family was cared for.
In keeping with his wishes, Charles will be cremated. And if you knew him, you’d understand that when his granddaughter once asked about his end-of-life plans, he simply replied that he wanted to be “fish bait.”
His sense of humor, his love for the water, and his larger-than-life spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
