Charles Laxton Duckworth, 92, of Morganton, NC, went to his heavenly home on Sunday, September 14, 2025 while surrounded by his family.
Born in Burke County, N Con November 2, 1932, he was the son of the late Avery Hannon Duckworth and Grace Emma Stamey Duckworth.
Charles grew up a country boy; always talking about hoeing corn at daylight and then walking miles to school. He was a strong man, always wanting to do something. Charles was not a perfect man, but he expected near perfection from his work. He taught his daughters to work for the things they need and have.
Charles was an avid fisherman; with many trips to Sante Cooper and Holden Beach for the big haul. He loved to travel, taking many trips across the US with Phil Toney Tours and numerous family vacations. He was known for the numerous pounds of excellent barbeque that he cooked. Charles built the first tiny home 50 years ago by turning an old school bus into a functional travel home named The Green Goose.
Mr. Duckworth retired from Drexel Heritage after 36 years of service. He also worked at Grand Piano Company.
A devout Christian, he was a lifetime member of Catawba Valley Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, janitor, trustee, and on the Building and Grounds Committee. Charles was a lifetime member of Ruritan National and the Chesterfield Ruritan Club. He joined Ruritan in 1970 and served as club president, vice president, and current treasurer. He received Ruritan of the Year 10 times. Charles was also instrumental in starting the Chesterfield Fire Department and served on the Burke County Fair Board.
Those left to cherish his memory include is wife of nearly 74 years, Margaret Duckworth; daughters, Dereama Duckworth and Jane Kincaid; grandchildren, Shawn Autrey (Hannah) and Jessica Marshall (David); great-grandchildren, Carson Wells, Carter Autrey, Justin Marshall, Maggie Marshall, and Hazel Marshall; two special adopted grandchildren, Tim Clark and Mary Ann Beam; a brother, Marshall Duckworth (Sandra); and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by brothers, William, Ivey, and Lewis Duckworth; sisters, Louise Mosteller, Marie Powell, Virginia Curtis, and Florence Ollis; and son-in-law, George Kincaid.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at Catawba Valley Baptist Church. The funeral will be held at 3 p.m. in the church with Rev. Jesse Lott and Rev. David Orders officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Catawba Valley Baptist Church Building Fund (catawbavalleybaptist.org/give).
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Deepest sympathy
Jane and family .. we are so sorry .. I know yall hearts have an empty spot that will never be filled but know time does heal .. and just think George was waiting inside the gate ! What a beautiful thing . It’s always hard on a daddy’s girl .. that was your first boyfriend .. my daddy been gone 2010.. and I still miss him .. but just feel your heart beat … he’s with you .. love you and many prayers for the hard days ahead .. love Diane .. Steve
My Sympathy to each of you in your loss of Charles. My memory of him was collecting money for the meals at the Ruitan building. I trust your memories will bring comfort to you in the future.
Charles was a giving man, if he had the means he would do most anything for family and friends. Went on a few fishing trips with him. I could set and listen to all the stories he had to tell. You ladies don't have to worry about Charles now he is right where he lived his life to be. I only have fond memories of Charles.
You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
A really good person .