Remembering our founder
Charlie Plummer
“Jesus, I will follow you all the days of my life.”
August 1, 1926 - November 25, 2021
Obituary
Charles Edward Plummer entered into the presence of his savior and first love Jesus Christ on November 25, 2021. A funeral service celebrating his life will be held at 4pm, Sunday, December 5th followed by a catered reception for all family and friends at Westover Church on 505 Muirs Chapel Rd, Greensboro, NC 27410.
Born on August 1, 1926, Charlie lived through the great depression and took care of his mother and sister after the passing of his father. At age 16, while reading the bible in the evenings, he made a decision to follow Jesus the rest of his life, a commitment he wholehearted followed all his days. He started Fleet-Plummer Hardware in Greensboro, NC in 1949 and married Fran Winslow in 1962 and adopted Fran’s two children Bob and Beth. For many years Charlie was involved in the community as a business owner, was a member of Westover Church, and participated in as many activities as he could to show and share the love of Jesus. He was an associate staff member of Campus Crusade for Christ.
Charlie’s lifelong desire was to love Jesus, to share Jesus, to see others grow in their walk with Jesus, and to pray. After the passing of his first wife in 2000, Charlie met and married Leonora Gay in 2004. Charlie lived his life for Jesus, always sharing, giving, and caring for others. His last days were spent in his home with his wonderful caregivers reminiscing and giving thanks to God for the many blessings of his life.
Charlie is survived by his children Bob and Beth, his five grandchildren, and his four great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Charlie’s memory may be made to Westover Church, Missions Fund or The Jesus Film Project, 100 Lake Hart Dr. Dept. 3100, Orlando, FL 32832 or to Campus Crusade for Christ, (CRU), P.O. Box 628222, Orlando, FL 32862-8222.
Share Condolences
Memorial Song
This song was written by Charlie’s grandson Reid the day after he passed away as a memorial to his life and legacy and what he loved most. Charlie prayed the prayer, “Jesus, I will follow you all the days of my life” when he was 16 after reading the bible on his own. He had never been to church and that was all he knew to say to commit his life to Jesus.
“Jesus, I Will Follow You All the Days of My Life”
Lyrics:
There once was poor boy, born in a small town,
Who lost his dad at an early age.
He cared for his mother, he cared for his sister,
Working 18 hours a day.
On his way to the bus stop, he heard about Jesus,
He bought a bible and began to read.
And he read about Jesus, and the men who followed him,
And one night he got down on his knees to pray, and he said,
Jesus I will follow you all the days of my life.
I will go wherever you lead me, I will give you everything.
Jesus, I will follow you, all the days of my life.
I will give you all my love, I will give you all my trust.
And he started a business, that he loved with all his heart,
And he saw it through times both good and bad.
And he met a woman, divorced with two children,
And he married her and adopted them, and together they made a home and he said,
Chorus
He was full of warm love, kind and generous,
Always looking for a place to give.
And he loved his Jesus, and he told everyone,
About the life that they could find in him.
He loved his precious wife, until her last day,
And then mourned for years and years.
And then he met a woman and fell in love again,
And he cared for her until her last day, and he said,
Chorus
And when he came to his last days, he talked about Jesus,
And the many joys that he had known.
And as he laid on his deathbed, he prayed to Jesus
Thanking him and telling him that all he wanted to say was,
Chorus
Condolences and Memories
“Granddaddy, I love you with all my heart and I miss you with all my heart. I will never be able to thank you enough for all the love, all the wisdom, and all the prayers and support, and the example you set for me and many others. I know you are with Jesus and I look forward to seeing you again one day! I love you and I miss you greatly!” - Reid Plummer
“Dad, I will miss you beyond measure. I love you ‘up to the sky and back’ a zillion times. Thank you for loving me and adopting me and most importantly sharing the Love of Jesus with me. I have so many great memories; our times at the lake house, in Fort Lauderdale, in Europe, in Israel,sitting on the back porch watching the birds, and playing cards. You were a great father. Say hello to mom for me and I will see you soon! 💕Beth” - Beth Ward
“Dad, you were the best father anyone has ever had. I will miss you dearly until I see you again in heaven. But until then I can rest in the legacy and blessings that you have deposited in me, my family and everyone you came in contact with. You loved us well.” - Bob Plummer
“Charlie has always held a special place in my heart. His willingness to share the gospel and lead us to the Lord completely changed the direction of our lives and for that, I will be forever grateful.” Donna A.
“Charlie, I wanted to thank you Charlie for allowing me too come into yours in Leanora‘s life. While living in your home for almost 3 years you taught me how to love Jesus with all my heart and my soul. But most importantly you taught me how to love unconditionally. I love you Charlie and I will miss you.” Kathy Lee
“I was broken when I met you. After being aside you for 8 months, my whole life changed. You gave me my joy back! Thank you Charlie Plummer!💕 Mary K. W.
“knew Charlie since 1993. For almost 30 years he inspired me in many ways from simple daily life to growing spiritually. He lived a simple life dedicating himself to the Lord and sharing it with others. He will be greatly missed not only in the United States but worldwide where he reached hearts and minds of many. People like him don't get born every day. R.I.P.” Dimitriy R.
“In my 45 year friendship with Charlie, I had the joy of staying in his home,singing with he and Fran and joining them in their sun room often sitting on the floor with prayer letters, prayer notebooks and the Bible and praying for the lost around the world and the needs of others. I had the joy of introducing Charlie to Leorona following a Jesus Project Briefing. With Leonora at his side they continued those daily times of fervent prayer! Charlie was a hero to me and I know that receiving his “Well done!” from Jesus he was welcomed by a great number of saints his prayers and giving helped bring to Jesus and heaven! I’ll miss him but will see him again When We All Get To Heaven…..what a day of rejoicing that will be!” Bill Sims for the Jesus Film Project
“Our experiences with Reid showed us how deep family beliefs and sense of service run.” Bill & Lib Seabrook
“So very sorry for your loss. You all have a wonderful store, and I am sure you all will continue to do so, in his memory. Deepest sympathy to you all.” Bonnie Cornwell
“I am sorry for your loss. I moved to NC 1989, and Fleet-Plumber has been my favorite store ever since. Thank you for sending me this news because I can know the gentleman that blessed Greensboro with such a great shopping experience.
HAVING SAID ALL THAT, MAY THE FAMILY REST IN JESUS' STRENGTH, HAVE HIS PEACE AND REJOICE IN CHARLIE BEING WITH HIS CREATOR, SAVIOR AND LORD.” TERRY-MARIE MARTIN
“Have loved his store & family for over 50 years. Such a class act with the best employees ever. RIP. You have earned it. 🙏” Pamela Lee
“My thoughts and prayers are with you. I loved Mr. Plummer and know that he had a big heart for others. I give thanks for his life and the many ways he followed Jesus.” Lydia Duhan Ellisor
“Have loved his store & family for over 50 years. Such a class act with the best employees ever. RIP. You have earned it. 🙏” Pamela Lee
“I am sorry for your loss. I moved to NC 1989, and Fleet-Plumber has been my favorite store ever since. Thank you for sending me this news because I can know the gentleman that blessed Greensboro with such a great shopping experience. Having said all that, may the family rest in Jesus' strength, have his peace and rejoice in Charlie being with his creator, savior and lord.” Terry-Marie Martin
“My thoughts and prayers are with you. I loved Mr. Plummer and know that he had a big heart for others. I give thanks for his life and the many ways he followed Jesus.” Lydia Duhan Ellisor
“What a wonderful testimony for Jesus and a great home grown establishment that has stood the test of time. May God give the family peace during their grief and continued growth in your business for years to come. Sincerely, Donna Howard”
“I’m so sorry for your loss! What a wonderful testimony for Jesus and a great home grown establishment that has stood the test of time.
May God give the family peace during their grief and continued growth in your business for years to come. Sincerely,” Donna Howard
“bob, here are our condolences to you great father charlie--your family and it's business has been very good to the triad community and we appreciate all yall have done for everyone over the many years of success.” Keith and Lisa Bunch
“My friend. My mentor. A shining example of how to live your life. I will miss his presence but his spirit will live with me always.” Jim Reitzel
“A great man, Charlie Plummer walked the talk!” Ben Miller
“He will be missed. What a legacy he has left his family and friends. Prayers for his Family and Friends.🙏🙏🙏” Deborah Cardwell
“My sincere condolences to the family. Charlie was a wonderful man. Some of my earliest childhood memories are when my dad (Julius George) worked for him in downtown Greensboro and would take me to the store. Christmas time was my favorite. We also visited Charlie and his mother many times. He will be truly missed.” Carol George Skeen
“Uncle Charlie will always be remembered with great appreciation of his love for Jesus, his infectious laugh, generous heart. He and both Fran and then Leonora were very close friends of my parents, Bob and Belva Foster and I am sure they are enjoying a great reunion in heaven already! Praying God’s comfort for you all as a family and that you may all carry on his legacy.” Sheila Foster Fabiano
“Charlie was my first boss 40+ years ago. Things he taught me as an impressionable young man, I still remember and apply with my employees today. He was everything everyone says he was.....a genuine example of Jesus Christ personified. Not only was he a mentor to me professional, but personally. I am blessed to have known him and his family.” Terry Hames
“Please accept our condolences on the passing of Mr. Charlie Plummer. We are so grateful that he had a wonderful vision for a business that has been a blessing to this community for 72 years.” Nora Jones, Sisters Network Greensboro NC
“He was an amazing man, and I have many memories of him. He used to help me himself and it felt special. So sorry for your loss.🙏🏻❤️” Becky Mills
“I admire him to stand up to his convictions. He moved to Oakcrest when Friendly Center required all stores to be open on Sunday. The move was very successful. My prayers for the family.” Josiane Lackey-Laumann
“My sympathy and condolences to the family of Charles Plummer. I shopped for many years in the Fleet Plummer Hardware Store in Friendly Shopping Center. I continue to shop and enjoy the new Fleet Plummer with a wide range of wonderful merchandise. It’s always a treat to shop in Fleet Plummer at Christmas time.” Jody Sutlive
“It saddens me to hear of Charlie's passing and I will be praying for all the family. I remember Charlie mostly because he used to come to the "Keenagers" luncheons at Westover. He had a warm and winning smile and he will be missed.” Gloria Cook
My sincere condolences for your loss. Will Pray for your family. I enjoy shopping in your store.” Sue Bailey
“I am so sorry for your loss " But I am happy because charlie is with Jesus" & he is the light of our world ! What beautiful Place to be " you will see him again & for eternity ! Every chance you get just look up & you will feel his presence " God is love !!!” Alan Beeson
“Charlie has only been in our lives for a few years, but I've no doubt we will see him again in the resurrection. He was clearly a humble man of God and a man who loved and cared for his family. It was always heartwarming to see him praying in the car when he was waiting for us to finish with his k9 companion "Katie", and some days that gave me peace when I didn't know where it would come from.
We are very sad at the news of Charlie's passing, but very happy that now he can rest in the Lord. May God bless the Plummer family.” Carla and Michael Wood
“I (Lisa) worked at Fleet Plummer a few years ago, but have been friends with the Plummer's for many years. Charlie was a precious and godly person who will be sorely missed. He was always kind and genuinely wanted to hear about your life and honestly prayed for me. He always had time to visit and care. His legacy will go on through his family as they have many of the same characteristics and love for their savior. I am sorry to hear of his passing, but know he is no longer suffering and is in the presence of his savior at last. May God's piece and presence be with you all who are grieving during this huge loss of such a loving man. We love you guys.” Lisa & Jeff Otten
“Our loss is heaven’s gain. Charlie was a patient of mine for over 30 years. He was loved by everyone in the office.I count it a great honor that he was the last patient I saw prior to having to close my practice urgently due to serious medical issues. During that visit, prior to leaving the room he prayed for me. What an amazing way he was used of God not only here but in numerous lives.” Spencer Tilley
“Bob & family, So sorry to learn of the passing of your Dad. He was a wonderful man. I first met him over in Friendly Shopping Center when I was just a young boy stopping by with my Dad. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers” Philip & Laure Hoffman
“We have so many wonderful memories of Charlie and Fran; and after her death, Charlie and Leonora. He and Fran loved God and had such a strong prayer life. And that love for God was also apparent between him and Leonora. We loved them and were so blessed with their friendship. Our love and prayers for all the family in their loss of Charlie.” Bob and Bobbie Hege
“Our condolences to your sweet family at Charlie’s home going. We have fond memories of his smile, that big laugh, and his humility and kindness. What comfort to know you will see him again.” Fred & Sandy Hamric"
“I grew up in Greensboro within walking distance of Fleet Plummer Hardware. I’m still proud of Mr. Plummer refusing to open on Sundays in Friendly Shopping Center because Sunday is our day for Church and Family. Prayers to the family!!!” - Reade Fulton
“Reid, our deepest sympathy go out to the Plummer family. We hope some comfort is found knowing others are thinking of you during these difficult times. May the Lord be with your family” Gene & Elizabeth Smith
“Our experiences with Reid showed us how deep family beliefs and sense of service run.” Bill & Lib Seabrook
“We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Charlie. So happy to know that the sorrow is fleeting as there is joy in knowing that a reunion is to come. May your grief be shortened by the wonderful memories of sweet times you had with him. We truly enjoyed our few short times shared with him and Mark’s aunt, Leonora.” - Mark and Neissa Gattis
“Please accept my condolences on the death of your beloved Dad, Charlie. May ministering angels be with you to give you strength and comfort at this time.” Bobby Dean
“Charlie was a gentleman and a understanding man; he will be missed.” Charles Winter
“My deepest condolences! What a beautiful memorial and what a testimony!! Keeping you all in my prayers.” Gwyn Beasley
“Always enjoyed helping and talking to Charlie at his home Rest in Peace.” Henry Garceau
“My sympathies to the entire family of Mr. Plummer. I did not know him, but every time I saw him at church, Mr. Plummer was a walking reminder of the love of, and for, Jesus that he lived. He was so loved by so many. I can see from this obituary that he was a great influencer for God. Blessings to you all as you find yourselves remembering your dad, grandad, role model, and friend.” Carol Caffarel
“Charlie’s face actually seemed to shine with the reflection of God’s love. His love of God and communion with God in prayer were so evident. I remember when he came to speak to a group of us on prayer he said that his daily newspaper was taking up too much of the time that he could be giving to prayer so he cancelled it. He did not want any idol to rob him of what he could give to the Lord. May the Lord comfort each of you. What a heritage God chose to give to you by His mercy and grace. Keep running the race! Love to each of you!” Lisa and Steve Reid
“May those of us who have been blessed by Charlie's fervent unrelenting prayers and his life testimony of salvation in Jesus alone, be led to pick up and carry forward the Christ-sharing and prayer mantles he has left for us.” Marti Carter
Watch a short video of Charlie reflecting on his life and his involvement in the “I Found It” campaign in the 1970s.
