Charlie Valentine

“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.”

Charlie Valentine, affectionately known by many nicknames—including “Grandpop Grump the Neighborhood Chump,” “Old Man Valentine,” and “Mr. Good Looking”—passed away peacefully at home on Monday, May 12, 2025, at the age of 86.

He was born on December 3, 1938, in Margarettsville, North Carolina, to Jessie and Susie Valentine (née Harris). His father was a sharecropper, and his mother worked as a domestic. Charlie graduated from Pemberton High School and later married Nancy Scott. Together they had two children: Charles Jr. and Lisa.

Charlie was a great father, son, brother, and friend—an amazing and supportive grandfather who showed up with love, pride, and encouragement. His vibrant personality, intelligence, and outgoing nature drew people in. He was outspoken and never afraid to speak his truth, always with charm and charisma. With a sharp sense of humor and a beautiful smile, he left a lasting impression wherever he went. Charlie lived a long, full life—rich with laughter, wisdom, and love. He often said, “It’s better to be old than to not get old,” a reflection of both his humor and gratitude for life.

Through hard work and a deep commitment to his family’s future, Charlie helped move his loved ones from Bristol, Pennsylvania, to Bedford-Stuyvesant, New York, with the help of his cousin Anne Frye and her husband Thomas. Along with Aunt Beattie and her husband Milton, they were key influences in Charlie’s young adult life.

As a young man, Charlie worked in the fields picking cotton, peanuts, blueberries, and tomatoes. He also worked alongside his brothers plowing the fields. A natural athlete, he played sports and was a proud member of his high school basketball team.

Charlie became one of the first African Americans to pass the exam and join the New York Fire Department. After sustaining an injury on the job, he transitioned into other professions—working in the postal union, selling insurance, and later taking on roles in private investigation. His journey was one of resilience, and through every chapter, he remained committed to supporting and inspiring his family. Eventually, he relocated to Willingboro, New Jersey, where he lived until his passing.

Throughout his career, Charlie proudly served in the New York Fire Department, the U.S. Post Office, private investigation, and insurance sales. He was a long-standing member of the American Legion in Burlington, New Jersey, a Mason, and an avid traveler.

In his later years, Charlie made the courageous decision to change his life for the better. He chose sobriety—leaning on strength, discipline, and the willingness to turn his will over to God. That choice became a defining moment in his life. He found peace in that transformation and lived the rest of his days one day at a time. His commitment to his health, regular workouts, and renewed faith through attending church inspired all who witnessed his journey.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie and Susie; his brothers, Frank Faison and Moses Deloatch; his sister, Clara Davis; and his niece, Lynette Valentine.

He is survived by his children, Charles Jr. (Tonya) and Lisa; his grandchildren, Chajuan, Brandee, Natasha, and Vaneda (Aschton); his great-grandchildren, Jayon, Jordyn, Jenae, Niya, and JR; his brother, Thomas Valentine of Bristol; his sister, Emma Valentine of Bristol; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Charlie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. In honor of his life, we encourage others to live with laughter, speak their truth, and cherish their families. May we all carry forward his wisdom, warmth, and unapologetic authenticity.

Relatives and friends are encouraged to visit Mr. Valentine's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences, and order floral tributes as expressions of sympathy to the family.

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Mr. Charlie Valentine

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charlie Valentine, please visit our floral store.