November 6, 2026, 78, – Charles R. Tew, of the Rosewood Community, peacefully passed away on November 6th at UNC Nash Hospital in Rocky Mount, NC, surrounded by his loving family. He was welcomed into Heaven with open arms by our Heavenly Father and Savior.
Charlie was born September 24, 1948, in Goldsboro, NC, where he lived a life filled with service, leadership, laughter, and an immeasurable love for his family. He was a man of many accomplishments, but above all, he was a devoted husband, father, friend, and a true Southern gentleman whose presence left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Charlie attended Rosewood School, and this was where he met the love of his life, Judy, whom he adored. He loved her deeply and took great pleasure in spoiling her just as she deserved. They married in 1967 and settled in the Rosewood Community, where they raised their family, made their home, and grew to love the people and close-knit community around them. They were blessed to have been married for 59 years.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Charlie served with the 25th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War from 1968 to November 1969. In recognition of his outstanding military service, he received the Army Commendation Medal. His official commendation recognized his diligence and determination, noting that he invariably accomplished every task with dispatch and efficiency. His unrelenting loyalty, initiative, and perseverance brought him wide acclaim and inspired others to strive for maximum achievement. Through his willingness to work long hours and his commitment, he contributed significantly to the success of the Allied effort. His commendable performance reflected the finest traditions of military service and brought distinct credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
His commitment to excellence continued throughout his professional career. Charlie was a respected leader in the NC dental laboratory business, where he owned Nu-Life Dental Studio in Goldsboro for over 40 years. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards and recognition, including the Merit Award from the North Carolina Dental Laboratory Association. He also served as President of the North Carolina Dental Laboratory Association.
He also believed in giving back to his community. He was a dedicated member of the Civitan organization and a proud member of Wayne Lodge No. 112 A.F. & A.M. of Goldsboro, NC. He was also involved with the Shriners, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Goldsboro Elks Lodge, reflecting his commitment to fellowship, brotherhood, and service.
While Charlie accomplished much throughout his life, his greatest pride and deepest love were his girls, better known as “Charlie’s Angels.” He adored his girls, and they knew without a doubt how special they were to him. The beach held a special place in his heart, where days were spent surrounded by his girls and his many buddies, enjoying the water and fishing. His boat, appropriately named “Charlie’s Angels” in honor of his girls, was the setting for countless memories, laughter, and special moments that will forever be cherished.
Charlie treasured family. To him, family was never limited to those connected by blood. His friends were family, too. He found happiness in bringing people together, sharing good times, and making memories with the people he loved.
Charlie leaves behind dear friends who held a special place in his heart, including Jerry Best, Vann Lane, Pete Hollowell, Michael Odom, Johnny Sauls, and Ralph Casey. To Charlie, friendships were family, and the bonds he shared with these men were treasured throughout his life.
While his family and friends will deeply miss him, there is comfort in knowing that he is reuniting with many of his buddies who went before him, including Joey Franklin, Mike DeGrechie, Craig Sewell, Ricky McLawhorn, and Rooster Narron. What a mighty day that will be when old friends meet again, the stories continue, and the laughter is heard once more.
He leaves a legacy that cannot be measured by awards, titles, or accomplishments alone. His greatest legacy is found in the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, the community he loved, the lives he touched, and the countless memories he created along the way.
He lived life on his own terms, loved his people fiercely, and never missed an opportunity to make a memory.
You will often hear his girls say, “He was a mess, but he was our mess.” He will be loved and missed beyond measure.
Special thanks to UNC Health Care Wayne, UNC Health Care Nash, Karen Vernon, AGNP, David Remington, MD, Matthew Sochat, MD, Christopher (Brian) Holloman, PA, and Gentiva Hospice.
The family will receive friends on Veteran’s Day, Wednesday, November 11, 2026 from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. A service to celebrate Charlie’s life will follow at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel with Rev. Joseph Franklin officiating. Military honors and Masonic Rites will be rendered during the service.
Charlie was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Doris Palmer; his stepfather, William Palmer; and his father, Herman Tew.
He is survived by his brother, James T. Tew (Sybil); his special uncle, Kermit Sykes, whom he loved dearly; a special niece, Kathy Lou Stevens (Kenny); as well as several other nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his godsons, David Franklin and Joseph Franklin.
He leaves behind a legacy of love to be carried on by his beloved wife, Judy, whom he adored; his two cherished daughters, Lisa Tew Gaskins of New Bern and her husband, Wade, and Angie Tew Bass of Pikeville and her husband, Mark Bass.
His greatest pride and joy extended to his grandchildren, Patrick Gaskins, who serves with the 82nd Airborne Division, United States Army; Samantha Gaskins; Abbe Harris; Avery Bass; and Turner Bass. They were a source of love and pride throughout his lifetime, and they will carry on his legacy of family, laughter, and love.
Donations can be made to the Cancer Society of America and The Disabled Veterans of America.
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