Charles Laney, age 77, of Hickory, formerly of Granite Falls, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Tuesday, February14, 2017, at Catawba Regional Hospice. He was born February 14, 1940, son of the late John Clifford and Coline Munday Laney.

Charles was a member of Penelope Baptist Church and traveled with his church on the Senior’s Church Bus. He graduated from Lenoir Rhyne College in 1962. He taught and coached for 35 years including Rhodhiss, NC, Wildwood, FL, Baton, NC and finished up at Hudson Middle School where he retired. He educated many school kids. He was an avid golfer and loved sports. After retirement, he worked as a tour guide with a tour company.

Mr. Laney loved his family, was a great husband and paw-paw to his grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Tracy.

Mr. Laney is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Brenda Brady Laney of the home; one daughter, Robin Trent of Hickory; one son Lee Laney and wife Rhonda of Morganton; four grandchildren, Lindsay Crowe of Connelly Springs, Brian Crowe and wife Lacie of Hickory, Schyler Branch and husband Jackson of Morganton, Conner Laney of Morganton; two sisters, Frances Laney Knight and husband Mike of Indian Trail, Sheila Laney of Granite Falls; sisters-in-law, Pat Turnmyre and husband Ned of Granite Falls, Judy Walker and husband Sonny of Granite Falls, Charlie “Bus” Brady of Granite Falls, Gail Moore and husband Jim of Hickory, David Brady, Cathy Gibson and husband Larry; great-grandchildren, Jasper Crowe, Josie Crowe; numerous nieces and nephews.

The family extends a special thanks to caregivers, Dot and Thel Alexander who have been loving neighbors for many years.

The family asked that memorials be made to Penelope Baptist Church, “Out of the Ashes Fund”, 3310 main Ave., NW, Hickory, NC 28601.

The family will receive friends Friday, February 17, 2017, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM at Penelope Baptist Church. A graveside service will be Saturday, February 18, 2017, 2:00 PM at Pinecrest Cemetery with Rev. Nicholas King officiating. Singer will be Terry Crouse. Pall bearers will be Brian Crowe, Phil Philyaw, Kevin Gibson, Ryan Wheeler, Bradley Davis, Brett Stephens, and Conner Laney.