Charles Eugene Day, a devoted member of Rocky Ridge Cumberland Presbyterian Church, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2024, at the age of 97. He leaves behind a legacy of service, love for his family, and a deep commitment to his country.
Born on August 1, 1926, Charles grew up in Webster's Chapel, Alabama, and attended Alexandria High School where he was part of the class of 1945. At the age of 17, he was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. Charles served in both World War II and the Korean Conflict, later retiring from the U.S. Army Reserves as a Sergeant First Class. His patriotism and love for his country were evident throughout his life, influencing his involvement in military reunions and his unwavering belief in service.
During his life, he served as a carpenter, union booking agent, building inspector for the city of Gadsden, and finally as State Director of Apprenticeship for the U.S. Department of Labor, from which he retired.
Central to Charles's life was his beloved wife, Ruth, whom he adored deeply. Together, they shared decades of companionship and mutual love. Ruth's presence was a constant source of joy and support for Charles. Many times, when he was in a tree stand hunting, she was at the base of the tree doing needle work or reading.
Charles enjoyed a rich and varied life. He was a skilled beekeeper, a gardener who took pride in his produce, and an adept maker of jams, jellies, and wine. His love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for hunting and fishing, pursuits he cherished throughout his life. One notable testament to his adventurous spirit was a solo drive, at the age of 96, from Birmingham, Alabama to Spearfish, South Dakota, to attend a Cavalry reunion. Charles will be remembered for his gentle demeanor, his deliberate pace in life, and his dedication to living in harmony with nature.
In addition to his wife Ruth, Charles was preceded in death by his daughter Judy Smith, son-in-law Gary Smith, brother Doyce Day, and his parents James Herbert and Winifred Leona Day.

He is survived by his daughter Tinley Kirby and son-in-law and co-caregiver Sonny Kirby, grand children: Jami Smith, Drue Gregory and his wife Beth, Leah Neal and her husband Wes, Reid Gregory and Rebecca, Kara Petrey, Laura Swann and her husband Adam, and Joe Kirby, great grandchildren: Alexis Poplin and her husband Stefan, Lauren Gregory, Blake Gregory, Trent Gregory, Ryley Gregory, Ethan Smith, Genevieve Neal, Corrine Neal, Madeline Neal, David Smith, Elena Petrey, Lily Petrey, Raylan Swann, Ava Swann, and Kaizlea Goodwin. He is also survived by his sister-in-law and chosen sister, Betty Day, nephew Glenn Day, and many cousins.
A funeral will be held at 2 pm Monday, July 8, 2024, at Gadsden Cumberland Presbyterian Church with visitation from 12 to 2 pm immediately prior to the service. Reverends Daniel Barkley, Dwayne Pounds, and Mike Wilkinson will officiate.  Adam Swann will provide music.  Crestwood Funeral Home will direct services.

So Many People have been essential in helping Charles and his family since his illness began on April 26, 2024. Pastor Karen and the members of Rocky Ridge have supported Dad with cards, visits, and prayers. There are so many medical professionals that have shown great compassion, care, and guidance during his journey Home. We would especially like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of St. Vincent's Hospital, Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital, Amedisys Home Health Care, Gadsden Regional Medical Center, Tracy Calhoun, nurses and staff of Regency Point Assisted Living and Pro Health Hospice- especially Katie. I would not want to forget Emily Veal, Ryan Yates,  Canaan Elkins, Keith Collins, Brandon Latham, Marcee Minogue and my Coworkers at Crestwood Funeral Home that have supported me and helped us through Dad's passing. .

Donations

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Shriner's Hospital for Children, P.O. Box 1525, Ranson, WV 25438.