Brothers and sisters, today we gather not to mourn, but to celebrate a life that was lived with purpose, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to both family and community. We are here to honor the life of a man who, for over a century, showed us what it means to walk in faith and stand firm in the face of adversity—our beloved Charlie Jasper Lentz.

Charlie was born on February 3, 1919, in Ansonville, North Carolina. The Lord saw fit to test him early when, just 12 days into his life, his father was taken from him while seeking help for his pregnant wife. But you see, God had a plan for young Charlie—a plan that would take him from the fields of Ansonville to the streets of Winston-Salem, where he would leave an indelible mark.

In the days of World War II, when the world was torn apart by conflict, Charlie didn't shy away—no, he stepped forward. At just 17 years old, he joined the Army and was sent to the cold, rugged terrain of Alaska. There, he put his hands to work, building the Alcan Highway, a lifeline that connected the United States to the distant lands of Alaska through Canada. That was the kind of man Charlie was—when the world needed to be built, he grabbed his tools and got to work.

Charlie came back home, married his dear Bernice Barber, and together they raised two beautiful children, Charles Denard and Gale Winnifred. He wasn't content just getting by; Charlie was determined to break down barriers. And so he did—he became the first Black man to work at the Winston-Salem Post Office. He started as a security guard, but through hard work, perseverance, and the grace of God, he rose to become the Chief of Security, serving for 26 years with excellence and integrity.

Even after he retired, Charlie didn't just sit back and watch the world go by. He continued to work at the Federal Building for five more years, and when he finally did step away, he didn't stop moving. Charlie could be found riding the bus, exploring every corner of Winston-Salem, keeping his finger on the pulse of a city that was constantly growing—just like he had throughout his life.

But above all, Charlie was a man of faith. For over 70 years, he was a pillar of the Goler Metropolitan AME Zion Church. He was a member of the Sunday School, an honorary member of the Women's Home and Overseas Missionary Society, and he served as a class leader. He was also a member of the Stewards Board, and in 2023, his commitment was recognized when he was crowned WNCC Home Missions King.

Charlie was a man who knew loss—he was preceded in death by his parents, his four brothers Jake, June, O.W., and Willie Lentz, his grandson Mitchell Lentz, and his special niece Annie Elizabeth "Lib" Lentz. But even in the face of such loss, he remained steadfast, and his legacy continues through those he leaves behind.

Charlie's memory will be cherished by his son Charles D. Lentz (Yara), his daughters Gale L. Krouser (Mike) and Rose Neal (Craig), his grandchildren Kimberley Lentz-Bunkley (Warren), Damon Lentz, Crystal Lentz, Russell Glenn, Alicia Taylor, Craig, Curtis, and Cory Neal, his special niece Wyvern "Angel" Anthony, and a host of great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and friends.

As we reflect on Charlie's life, let us remember that this is not goodbye—it's a celebration of a journey well-traveled, of a man who lived each day with purpose, and who now rests in the arms of the Lord. Rest well, Brother Charlie, for your work here is done. The seeds you planted in this life will continue to grow, watered by the love and memories of those who were blessed to know you.
A memorial service will be held Saturday September 7, 2024, at 12pm from Goler Metropolitan A M E Zion Church. The family will receive friends at 11:30 am. There will be no public viewing. Arrangements are in the care of Douthit Funeral Services.