Charles Ervin Clontz Jr., known to all as Charlie, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the age of 74.

A funeral service honoring his life will be held at First Methodist Church in Morehead City on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a private family interment. The family will gather briefly in the church’s atrium beginning at 1:00 p.m. to receive friends.

Charlie was born on March 19, 1952, in Morehead City, North Carolina to the late Charles Ervin Clontz and Dora Mae Cason. Growing up in the heart of downtown, he embraced everything our unique coastal town had to offer, creating countless memories around the waterfront and throughout the community. With his quick wit, fun-loving spirit, and effortless ability to connect with others, he drew people in wherever he went.

After losing his father at a young age, Charlie developed treasured relationships with his father’s siblings, Uncles John, Wallace, and James (Jim), and his Aunt Patricia (Patti). His summers spent with them had a lasting, positive impact on his life.

In high school, his love for music and good company led him and several friends to attend what would become a legendary event: Woodstock. He graduated from West Carteret High School in 1970 as part of a remarkably close-knit class that stayed connected through frequent reunions. Charlie often helped organize those gatherings and took pride in supporting the annual scholarship his classmates established for local students.

Following graduation, he served in the U.S. Army for several years. His time in the service took him across Europe and Germany, giving him experiences he likely wouldn’t have had otherwise and becoming a significant turning point in his life. Upon returning, he attended East Carolina University, earned his CPA license, and came back home to launch a long and fulfilling career in public accounting.

On August 4, 1979, Charlie married his high school sweetheart, Janice Lupton. Married for more than 40 years, they built a loving home centered on hard work, integrity, and strong dedication to their family and friends. Together they were blessed with a daughter, Sarah Kate, who, along with her husband Wade Donald Willis III (Trey) and their son, Wyatt, all became the greatest joys of their lives.

As a CPA, Charlie practiced for nearly 40 years, many of them as Tax Partner and head of the Morehead City office of McGladrey & Pullen. He approached his work with genuine care, investing time in his clients’ lives and making a meaningful difference for countless local businesses and individuals. The supportive, family-like atmosphere he fostered in the office reflected his steadfast character, natural ability to lead, and sincere kindness that made everyone feel welcome, earning him lasting respect and fondness from everyone he worked with.

Charlie’s hobbies brought him great joy throughout the years. As a young adult, he mastered the art of playing the banjo and even helped form a local bluegrass band, the Core Creek Corn Commission. In later years, golf became his passion. He played whenever possible and enjoyed participating in countless local tournaments with friends.

In addition to his daughter and her family, Charlie is survived by his sister, Jane Landrum (Bob) and her family; his close brothers-in-law, Charles Lupton, Michael Lupton (Hope), and Warren Lupton (Kristin) along with their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Janice; his sister, Janenne DeShane; and sister-in-law, Lynn Lupton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Nature School at Camp Albemarle (Nature School Fund)—the special place that has brought such joy and growth to his grandson Wyatt’s life. Direct link: Nature School Annual Fund or Mail: Camp Albemarle, Attention: Nature School Annual Fund, 156 Albemarle Drive, Newport, NC 28570.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.