FRANKLIN — Charles Ashley Wrenn, 77, passed away at his home on June 8, 2018, with his wife and daughter at his side.

A native of Danville, Virginia, Charles was born on Jan. 29, 1941, to Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Harris Wrenn.

After graduating in 1959 from George Washington High School, he continued his education at Virginia Tech where he graduated in 1964 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

His career began at Newport News Shipbuilding where he worked for nine years. During that time, he earned a master’s degree in thermal engineering, as well as a master’s degree in business administration from Old Dominion University.

He also served his country in the Marine Corps Reserves.

In 1973, Charles went to work at Union Camp Corporation and moved his family to Franklin in 1976. He retired from International Paper in March 2000 as the manager of Mill Engineering.

Charles enjoyed community service and served as the president of the Franklin Lion’s Club, the Franklin Rotary Club and the Southampton Memorial Hospital Board of Directors. He served on the Franklin City Council for eight years, and was a member of Franklin Baptist Church, where he served on the Board of Deacons. He was also on the Board of the Bronco Federal Credit Union and served as board chairman for many years.

Charles was a lifelong Hokie fan and attended many football games at Virginia Tech. He also enjoyed golf and volunteering as a Raider Reader at Southampton Academy. He loved spending time with his family and friends.

Charles is survived by his wife of 53 years, Roberta Davis Wrenn; his daughter, Meredith Allen Wrenn and husband, Michael, of Franklin; two granddaughters, Emily Allen and Morgan Suzanne Wrenn; as well as his beloved extended family, nieces and nephews, and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Stephen Ashley Wrenn; and his brother, Clyde Harris Wrenn Jr.

The family would like to especially acknowledge and thank Renee Wrenn and Valerie Riddick who lovingly cared for Charles in his time of need.

Funeral arrangements are being provided by Wright Funeral Home. Services will be on Wednesday, June 13, at 2 p.m., in Franklin Baptist Church.

Following the services, all are invited to attend a reception in the Fellowship Hall. Interment will be private.

The family will receive visitors at 104 Sycamore Road.

Memorial donations can be made to Franklin Baptist Church; the Stephen A. Wrenn Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Southampton Academy, 26495 Old Plank Road, Courtland, VA 23837; or a favorite charity.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org.