Charles Edward Burdette, 85, of Statesville, N.C., left his life on earth to sing bass in the Heavenly choir on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, after a long period of declining health.

He is survived by his wife of over 56 years, Helen Rhyne Burdette. Also surviving are his two daughters, Cynthia “Cindy” Burdette Johnson (Eddie) and Wendy Burdette Gilreath (Eric); and his pride and joys, his grandsons, Austyn David Gilreath (Allison) and Jacob Edward Gilreath; his sister, Mildred Burdette Benfield; and sister-in-law, Polly Haithcox Burdette; and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Ray Burdette; brother-in-law, Harold Eugene “Buck” Benfield; and both of his parents.

Charles was born in Statesville on January 6, 1936, to the late Ernest Prue Burdette and Nettie Porter Burdette. He attended Statesville City Schools. After high school, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. After returning home from the Marines, he decided to join the U.S. Army. After leaving the Army, he returned to Statesville and met and married the love of his life, Helen. He worked many jobs over the years, including work at Southern Screw, as a truck driver and as owner of Burdette’s 5&10. He was a member of Welcome Baptist Church, where he served at various times as Chairman of Deacons, Treasurer, Music Director and Sunday School Teacher.

Charles’ joy in life was his family and singing praises to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. No matter where he was or what he was doing, he was always singing. Even in his final days, he was singing in his sleep.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 13, 2021, at Welcome Baptist Church. Military honors will follow. A private graveside will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice & Palliative of Iredell County, 3247 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625; Gideons International Statesville Camp, P.O. Box 148, Statesville, NC 28687; or Welcome Home Baptist Church, 2068 Shelton Avenue, Statesville, NC 28677. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.troutmanfuneralhome.com.

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family.