Charles was born on July 11th, 1946, in Montclair, New Jersey to the late Lula Mae Cox and Rozie Lee Espy. He grew up and attended public schools in Montclair. Every summer, he spent a few weeks with his family in Statham, Georgia with memories he always reminisced about. In 1963 he met the love of his life, Evelyn. In 1965, he enlisted and served four years in the United States Marine Corp. During this time, he served 13 months in Vietnam. Charles was very proud of having served his country as a Marine. In 1967 Charles and Evelyn were married. They enjoyed 55 years as a married couple. Through this union, they had two children, Charles (Skip) Andrew and Danielle Lisa. They spent the first sixteen years of their marriage in New Jersey where Charles was a Montclair Fireman for seven years, a limousine owner, and a Greyhound Bus Charter Driver. Prior to his children being born, he took flying lessons; a life passion of his. In 1987, he moved the family to Apex, NC. There he purchased an 18-wheeler tractor and trailer to begin his dream business and career as an independent trucker. That man LOVED TO DRIVE! He drove cross country millions of miles, making fast friends along the way. Charles could give you directions from point A to point B, by giving you landmarks and the best spots to stop and eat along the way. Charles retired from his trucking career in 2008. During the next 6 years, he enjoyed traveling, visiting with family and friends, and working part time for his wife, as her route partner and self-proclaimed driving instructor. In 2014 he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. To the very end, he remained in his home surrounded by love and his jazz music. Anyone that knew Charles, knows that a stranger was just a friend he had yet to meet. Charles’ personality lit up a room and he made fast friends by imparting his wisdom, love, and speaking his truth. He was the best husband, father, sibling, extended family member, and lifelong friend, giving freely and earnestly of his time. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Kenneth. He leaves to celebrate his life and mourn his passing, his Wife, Evelyn Espy of the home; Daughter, Danielle Epps (Terique) of Raleigh, NC; Son, Charles A. Espy, Jr. (Maarja Utno) of Apex, NC; Sisters, Patricia Brooks of Travares, FL and Michelle Espy of Durham, NC; Brother, Michael Espy (Raynette) of Carteret, NJ; two Grandchildren, Addison Eve Epps of Raleigh and Gabriella Mai Utno-Espy of Apex, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.