Carl Vernon Lawing

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delighteth in his way.’ Psalm 37:23.
Carl Vernon “Papa” Lawing, Sr., 93, of Charlotte, NC, went home to his Lord and Savior on January 3, 2023. Born December 6, 1929, in Paw Creek, NC, son of the late Charlie Mack and Carrie Lawing, Carl was loved by everyone who met him. After graduating from Paw Creek High School in 1947, Carl served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Bennington during the Korean War. Carl would faithfully attend both high school class and naval ship reunions where he would recount stories of friends, baseball, time on the ship, as well as adventures taken in New York, Italy, Turkey, France, and more. Carl’s greatest adventure would begin in January of 1956, when he married the love of his life, Shirley, and they raised three boys that they deeply loved. Carl also loved Jesus. His faith was an important part of his life, and he served as both a deacon and Sunday School teacher at Thrift Baptist Church, a church his mother helped start in 1914. Carl was an avid sports fan. He coached various sports through West Meck Optimist Club as a positive influence in his family and throughout the community. Carl was a hard worker and provided for the needs of his family, as well as many others that crossed his path. He never met a stranger and lived out the Golden Rule - do unto others as you would have them do to you. Carl wore many titles over the years, but his favorite was Papa.
Carl is preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Arnold, Ella Mae, Clifford, Florine, Catherine, Rosella, Loyah, Bertie Faye, and Byron Eugene.
Surviving is Carl’s wife of 67 years, Shirley; sons Carl Jr. (Margie), Scotty (Karen), and Steven; grandchildren Shaun, Michael (Katie), Lindy (Matt), Brian (Amanda), KC (Krista), and Faith; great-grandchildren Macie, Liam, Cora, Landon, Morgan, and Lennon; as well as many beloved nephews and nieces.
The family will hold a 12:00 pm graveside service on Monday, January 9, 2023, at Forest Lawn West Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Navy. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the church or charity of your choice. Condolence messages may be sent to the family by visiting www.woodlawnfuneral.org. Woodlawn Funeral Home of Mount Holly is caring for Mr. Lawing's family.

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