GRANTHAM — Mr. Charles Hughes Massey, 95, beloved husband, father and grandfather, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012. He passed away at Wayne Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family.
A service to celebrate his life will be held Tuesday evening, Sept. 11, at 7 p.m. from the chapel of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory with the Rev. Jim Gurganus officiating. Visitation will immediately follow the service. Burial will be held Wednesday, Sept. 12, at 11 a.m. in Wayne Memorial Park.
Charles, a lifelong farmer, was born on the family farm in Sampson County to the late John Millard Massey and Flora Underwood Massey. He is survived by his wife of almost 74 years, Ruth Edwards Massey, who was the love of his life. Charles’ main goal in life was to be a good provider for his family and to be the best husband and father possible. He will be remembered as a man who enjoyed his family and friends and life on the farm. Charles was a very positive person who instilled in his children a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed. His favorite saying was “Every day is a good day.”
Left to cherish memories of Charles are his daughters, Annie Fritz and husband, Stephen of Grantham, Edna Lancaster and husband, Bobby of Wilmington, Mary Aswell and husband, Edward of Grantham and Gail Faircloth and husband, Dannie of Grantham; his sons, Thomas “Tom” Massey and wife, Faye of Newton Grove, Charles “Abo” Massey and friend, Kim Strohmer of Grantham and James Millard “J.M.” Massey and wife, Sylvia of Grantham. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Elma West of the home; 22 grandchildren, four step-grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; two step-great-great grandchildren; and several nieces; and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Charles “Bud” Edwards; his brothers, Fred Massey, Jack Massey, Lorenza Massey; and sisters, Lillie Rich, Agatha Joyner, Mattie Pearl Rich and Rose Harris.
Charles’ family would like to express their thanks to the Emergency Room staff and the second floor staff for the love and care shown to him while there.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to Westbrook Grove PFWB Church, c/o Ben Dunn, 100 Grove Church Road, Mt. Olive, NC 28365 where Charles was a member for more than 60 years.
Light a candle at www.howellfuneral.com.







