Charles Reid Lankford

Charles Reid Lankford – September 18, 1938 – June 8, 2023

Charles Reid Lankford was born September 18, 1938, to Bryant Arthur Lankford and Rachel Patterson Lankford of Efland, NC. Charles was the first of two children. He was predeceased by his wife Sylvia Leigh Smith and his brother Henry ‘Cotton’ Lankford; and survived by Henry’s wife Margaret Nelson Lankford. Charles married the love of his life, wife Sylvia Leigh Smith on December 6, 1958, and they were blessed to spend 62 years together in a lifetime of love, caring, and partnership. Together they raised three surviving children and one treasured grandchild: son Reid Lankford and wife Beverly of Durham, NC; son Mark Lankford, wife Melissa, and granddaughter Sarah Faye of Rougemont, NC; and daughter Anna Lankford of Durham, NC.

Tall in stature and a source of strength, Charles lived a full life surrounded by his family before building a family of his own. Charles loved the outdoors, fishing in his boat with friends, building a project like a swing or an Adirondack chair, or tending his lawn with pride. In his passing, Charles is described by his family as a ‘storyteller, brother, father, and loving husband, with quick humor and a deep sense of pride in his home, family, and country.’

Charles graduated from Aycock High School in Cedar Grove, NC. After graduation, he worked on the farm and in local businesses, and was later to proudly serve in the NC National Guard from 1958-1965.  Charles was an accomplished carpenter with a love for woodworking and craftsmanship over many years. In the final 10 years of his career, Charles was employed by UNC Carpentry at the University of Chapel Hill, NC.  He and his family have been dedicated UNC Tarheel fans throughout his life’s journey. Along with his wife, Charles was a member of Efland United Methodist Church and the wider Efland community. His greatest joy in life was in being with his beloved wife Sylvia, their children and families.

Church Sanctuary Visitation 10:00-11:00 am with Graveside Service to follow:

Tuesday, June 13, 2023, beginning at 10:00 am

Efland United Methodist Church, 3418 US 70, Efland, NC 27243

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name are requested to:

Efland United Methodist Church, 3418 US 70, Efland, NC 27243