Charlie Wingfield, a resident of Hampton for 92 years, passed away on Friday, May 11, 2018. Left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are his two sons and their families – Chuck, his wife Patti, and their children Lauren (Andy) and Parker, and David, his wife Robin, and their children Caitlin and Blaine (Haley). Charlie is also survived by his brother Ben and a host of nieces and nephews, among whom Debbie Salvant, along with her husband Mickey, held a special place. Having been widowed in 2000, he is now reunited with Lois, his wife of more than 50 (mostly good) years.
Charlie was a star athlete at Hampton High School before suffering a devastating knee injury that ended his athletic career and left him unable to join his generation in military service to his country. Instead he devoted his life to serving his family, his friends, and his community – always putting others before himself.
Through the Jaycees and other service organizations, Charlie was intimately involved in projects ranging from the Miss Virginia Pageant to the Soap Box Derby to the establishment of the Air and Space Park. He was also a founding member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church. As a result of his widespread efforts he became the third person ever awarded a lifetime membership – now terminated – in the Jaycees.
Charlie was also a master craftsman and used these skills at Davis Boat Works and most significantly over a nearly 50 year career as a dedicated employee of Newport News Shipbuilding. He also applied his skills to model making, building cabinets, and building/restoring Hampton One Design sailboats. The products of his work can still be seen in displays at Mariner’s Museum, in homes across the Peninsula, and on the waters of Hampton Roads.
Upon retiring from NNS, Charlie embarked on a second career helping his friends, Gene and Randy, build their businesses and working with his friends at Boulevard Cleaners. He also spent a significant amount of energy passing on his knowledge to his sons and grandchildren while restoring and repairing houses. And he was remarkably successful given the less skilled and less patient nature of his students.
But the true joy of his life over the past few decades were his grandchildren. Dadada to Lauren and Parker and Granddaddy to Caitlin and Blaine, he attended every recital, event, game, meet, match, and celebration he could. His pride in his grandchildren and their accomplishments was unbounded. However he was disappointed that they did not grace him with great-grandchildren, so his final advice to them is to get busy.
A private celebration of his life is planned. The Wingfield families extend their heartfelt thanks to his neighbors (especially Kara), doctors, and staff at Riverside and Newport Rehab who provided great friendship and care.
In lieu of any monetary tribute – support for charities both good and dubious have been provided for by him – Charlie would want everyone to spend a little extra time with family and friends.
