Charles Lawrence
Charles Edwin Lawrence, age 86, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, in Hendersonville, NC, surrounded by family. Born in Arcade, New York, in June of 1938, Chuck lived a life marked by deep love, music, service, and connection. Chuck was the beloved husband of Gail for 40 wonderful years. He was the proud father of Glenn Lawrence, Jeffrey Lawrence, Robert Lawrence (wife, Alison), Anthony Calabro (wife, Karen), Michael Calabro, and Michele Bartlett (husband, Timothy). His legacy lives on through his 11 grandchildren—Jessica (Lawrence) Kelley; Nathaniel Lawrence; Alex, Reagen, Roger, Sophia, and Andrew Calabro; Tia, Emma, Jack, and Ryan Bartlett—and his two great-grandchildren, Jackson and Olivia Kelley.
Chuck grew up with five sisters, cherishing strong family bonds. He was preceded in death by Linda and Kathy and is survived by Thelma, Rowena, and Noralyn. A graduate of SUNY Fredonia, Chuck proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, sharing his love for music as a trombonist in the Army band. Jazz music was a lifelong passion, and with his closest friends, he founded the Chuck Lawrence Big Band in Buffalo, NY, bringing joy to audiences for many years.
Chuck began his professional life in sales, but his caring spirit led him to a new path later in life. In his 50s, he returned to school and became a licensed practical nurse, faithfully serving veterans at the VA hospital in Buffalo, and later in Asheville, NC.
Chuck was known for his warm personality—he truly never met a stranger. He found joy in every conversation, loved his family fiercely, and had a deep and enduring faith in the Lord.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Chuck’s life will be held on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Grace Mills River Church, 495 Cardinal Rd, Mills River, NC. Family and friends are invited to join in remembering and celebrating Chuck’s life. An inurnment with Military Honors will be held at 10:00 AM, Monday, June 23, 2025, at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain.
In lieu of flowers, please honor Chuck’s memory by sharing kindness, listening to jazz, or reaching out to someone in need. Shuler Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.