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Elder Charles Atkins McDuffey, Sr., age 88, was born in Knoxville, TN July 24, 1936 to the late Daniel and Dorothy Brazelton McDuffey. He slept peacefully away at the home of his daughter, Chenitha M. Drake.
Charles affectionately called “Charlie” was educated in the Knoxville City Schools System and was a graduate of Austin High School, class of 1954. He was active in the school’s band and the Elk’s band. While in high school, he became a caddy at the Holston Hills and Deane Hill country clubs, leading him to enjoy playing the game of golf. He retired from Robert Shaw after many years of service.
He grew up in the Emmanuel United Presbyterian Church. He was called into ministry and served as pastor for the Greater Shiloh Church of God for 7 years. He enjoyed attending church, worshipping, and praising God.
Charles was united in marriage to the late Deloise A. McDuffey for 52 years. He also is preceded in death by his son, Charles Atkins McDuffey, Jr.; brother, Sherman McDuffey; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is survived by his loving and devoted daughter and son-in-law, Chenitha and James Drake, whom were his caregivers; loving sister, Beverly McDuffey Ward; loving brother and sister-in-law, Ernest and Katherine McDuffey, Sr.; brother and sister-in-laws, Anthony and Valerie McGhee; loving grandchildren, Eric (Chrishawna) Drake and Jamelia McDuffey; great-grandchildren, Erykah Drake, NaRaya Brinson, and Aymarri Brinson; loving nieces and nephews, Vennia McDuffey, Yolanda (Lydell) Hammond, Darren (Jackie) McDuffey, LaKeisha Smith, Dr. Daymond (Tara) McDuffey, Sr., Ernest (Alyshia) McDuffey, Jr.; many great nieces and great nephews, to include Sherman Casby; many cousins, to include Laura Miles Goss, David (Doreen) Taylor, and their families; and many devoted friends, to include Darlene Moulden and Rev. Gene Thomas.
Family will receive friends Saturday, November 30, 2024 from 12 to 1pm at Open Door Church, 2806 Sherman St, Knoxville, TN 37921, with funeral services to follow. Rev. Steve Simpson officiating. Interment at Mt. Olive Cemetery. Final arrangements entrusted to Jarnigan & Son Mortuary.