WILMINGTON — Charles Guy Gillette, 80, of Wilmington, NC, passed away on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear Lifecare in Wilmington.
He was born on August 20, 1946, in Onslow County, North Carolina, to the late Guy Gillette and the late Thelma Holland.
Charles was a former deacon at Newport Baptist Church and a member of Wrightsville Beach Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir. Through the Baptist Men’s ministry, he helped build wheelchair-accessible ramps for those in need. He also participated in numerous mission trips to Honduras and volunteered with the Samaritan’s Purse Crisis and Disaster Response Team.
Known for his ability to fix nearly anything, Charles was a quiet and gentle soul who always had a smile on his face. He retired from Industrial Electronics Repair after 34 years of service at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. Charles enjoyed traveling the world with his wife, Virginia, and especially treasured their trip to Israel. Above all, he was a devoted servant of the Lord.
Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia Gillette; his daughter, Lori Gillette Stafford and husband, Darin; his grandchildren, Hannah Stafford, Allie Stafford; his brother, George Gillette and wife, Patricia; special friends, Tom Canady, Susan Canady; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Charles was also preceded in death by his sister, Mary Gillette Waters; and his brothers, John Gillette, and Walter Gillette.
A celebration of life will be at 11:00 am on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Wrightsville Baptist Church with Reverend John McIntyre and Pastor Tom Canady officiating. The family will receive friends and visitors one hour prior to the service starting at 10:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Charles’ name to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare at 1406 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
