Christian, Charles Robert

Charles Robert Christian, 53, of Pearisburg, Va., passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 24, 2008. He was born in Bluefield, W.Va., on April 23, 1955, and was the son of the late Elmer Lee and Kathryn Ida Blankenship Christian. In addition to his mother and father, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Nicholas Tyler Christian; and two brothers, Eldridge Dean (Bunny) Christian, and Vasa Troy Shaffer.

A 1973 graduate of Narrows High School, he was a skilled craftsman, a lifelong carpenter and die-hard NASCAR fan. His many talents included writing poems, drawing, and painting. Charles made many friends everywhere he went.

He is survived by three daughters, Charla Lynn Bryan, of Martinsville, Ohio, Ashley Bara Williams, and Stevie Amber (Rudy) Orange and husband, Bruce, all of Christiansburg; six grandchildren; two sisters, Barbara Perdue and husband, Bob, of Narrows, and Drema Smith and husband, E.W., of Princeton, W.Va.; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; an uncle, Kermit Blankenship and wife, Zelma, of Narrows; an aunt, Zella Blankenship, of Spartanburg, S.C.; and many special friends.

The family will receive friends at Riffe’s Funeral Service in Narrows on Saturday, December 27, 2008, from 6 to 8 p.m. with a brief prayer service at 7:45 p.m. with the Rev. Olen Robertson and the Rev. Bill Crawford officiating.

In honoring Charles’ request, he will be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to the family in care of Stevie Orange, 180 Woodland Drive, Christiansburg, Va. 24073.

Online condolence messages can be sent to the family at www.riffes.com.