Charles Malcolm Oliver

We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Tarring-Cargo Funeral Home

John, Cindy, Mitchell, Miles & Caroline, I am so very sorry for the loss of your dad, grandfather and brother. He spoke about all of you often, and was so proud of you! There’s so much to say about a man who lived such an extraordinary, and at times, almost unbelievable life. We first met Charlie & JoAnne back in 2010, and from the very beginning, the stories started flowing. One after another, filled with great detail, and charm. Just when we thought we’d heard it all, he’d casually drop another one, and somehow, it would be even more surprising than the last. One moment I’ll never forget. My dad was visiting us in Florida, and we were all sitting and talking. Then, Charlie started telling us about a horse named Oliver’s Twist. The name immediately caught our attention, because my dad loved horse racing, and it sounded familiar. Charlie smiled and told us it was his horse and that it came in 2nd place in the Preakness. My dad remembered the horse. After Charlie stepped out of the room, we just looked at each other in disbelief, this guy cannot be real.” So naturally, we Googled it. And, sure enough, it was all true. That was Charlie. He never ceased to amaze us! Then came another story, this one deeper, and even more powerful. Charlie shared how he had survived a plane crash. As if that alone weren’t remarkable, he told us how, years later, his son John was traveling and struck up a conversation with a local driver. The driver mentioned he was from a town near or in the area that plane crash had happened. He said he’d always wondered what happened to the man and wondered if he survived. At that point, John realized the man he was talking about… was his dad. That moment wasn’t just coincidence. It was a Godwink. It left us with hair standing! And behind all of Charlie’s larger-than-life stories was JoAnne, his quiet, steady anchor and love of his life. She stood beside him with grace, warmth, and a gentle strength. In those moments when we weren’t quite sure if a story could possibly be real, she’d give the slightest smile or softly finish his sentence. That was all the confirmation we needed. I’ll never forget the day she shared her famous Dale Earnhardt’s Chef Key Lime Pie recipe with me, written in Charlie’s handwriting, in her sweet voice, she said, “Now don’t share this with anyone… it’s special.” And just like that, she handed over what felt like a piece of family treasure. I think often about those days in Florida, how safe I felt knowing they were right there, and how much brighter they made my days. Whether it was dinner, a shopping trip, cleaning the outside of the stainless steel refrigerator, or cleaning the sliding glass doors, “the right way……Charlie’s way.” It was then I nicknamed him “Charles In Charge”! Their presence was a constant comfort and joy. Charlie was always looking out for others. Always there to help any of the neighbors fix anything! But, especially when it came to boating and fishing! Both Charlie and JoAnne were so thoughtful, attentive, and kind. The years spent sharing life with them left an imprint on my hear, as well as many of our family and friends they met over the years. Their kindness, humility, and love shown made everyone around them feel seen, cared for, and welcome. Charlie and JoAnne lit up every room they walked into, not with flash, but with elegance and warmth. Since they left Florida in March of COVID, our time together wasn’t daily anymore, and I’ve missed them more than I can say. Thank goodness for FaceTime and some visits. I will always be grateful that God placed them in my life. As we remember and celebrate Charlie’s life, I just want to say thank you. Thank you, Charlie, for the joy, the wisdom, the laughter, and the love you shared so freely. Your stories, your heart, your friendship, are gifts I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life! I miss you both so very much! Rest well, Charlie. You truly made this world a better place

Charlie was my Rotary friend & we used to volunteer for the checkin table at the Rotary Golf Tournament for many years. He would pick me up at my home every year and put my wheelchair in his car trunk. Those were fun days as we greeted players and answered their questions and handed out gifts. I will always remember his kind smile and greetings. Jim Lindsey/Lindsay

My mother and I were very sorry to hear of Charlie's passing. Our prayers are with his family. I worked with Charles T and Charlie at Wilson Oliver back in the 1960s. Carolyn I'm so sorry for your loss. Anne Volkart

John and Family, I met your parents years ago when they still lived at Avondell. They were so full of life and laughter. This year I was so excited to learn I was able to spend more time with Charlie. Charles and I picked up where we left off, talking about our friends, watching golf and joking around and laughing together; as well as eating our favorite Oatmeal Cookies😂💚💚💚. He would tell me stories and I would tell him of mine. Your Dad was a wonderful person and I loved him very much. Thank you for letting me spend more time with my dear friend. Hope Esser