This obituary was originally published on Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home.
Charles Edward Bechtol, Sr., 80, of Fayetteville, passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.
Born December 16, 1945, in Cumberland County, Charles was the son of the late Edward F. Bechtol and Leona Ida Mae Whisner Bechtol.
Charles proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 82nd Airborne, retiring with the rank of Sergeant Major after a distinguished military career during which he received numerous medals and honors. Following his retirement from the Army, he continued his service to the community through his work with the United States Postal Service.
An outdoorsman at heart, Charles enjoyed hunting and trout fishing. He had a deep love for his country and an unwavering devotion to his family, who will cherish his memory and the example of strength, loyalty, and dedication he leaves behind.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Frances Marie Bechtol and his brother, Neal Ford Bechtol and wife, Erma.
Left to cherish his memory are his sister, Virginia Lee Wright, Brother Gary Wayne Bechtol, Son, Charles (Chuck) E. Bechtol Jr, Daughter Rebecca Lee Bechtol, grandson Charles (Trace) E. Bechtol III.
The family will receive friends from 1-1:50 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m. in the Chapel. A private family burial will be held at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Funeral arrangements by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com