Charles E. "Charlie" Melhinch

Charles Edward Melhinch, 76, of Wake Forest, went home to be with the Lord on January 30, 2026 surrounded by family. Charlie was a shining light and a blessing in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on earth was defined by love for family, love of business, compassion and unwavering faith in God.

Charlie was born and raised in Kansas City, MO, and later relocated to Kansas. After graduating from Shawnee Mission North High School in Overland Park, Kansas, Charlie attended Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas for a short time. He served honorably in the United States Army Reserve during the Vietnam era.

A true entrepreneur, his business adventures started at just 10 years of age, mowing lawns. In his early adulthood he started Central Electric, a business rewinding motors. He sold that business and moved to Raleigh, NC, in December 1990 to open a Johnstone Supply franchise, an HVAC distributor. Far surpassing his goal of owning two stores, he retired with an astounding ten stores. Despite his successful career, he continued to see opportunities and work toward his next big idea.

Charlie has been the owner of the award-winning Greystone Horse Farm in Wake Forest, a hunter/jumper/training/boarding equine facility for over twenty years.  He was the owner of a Grand Prix-level horse, Greystone's Tongue Twister, that won many ribbons.

A devoted family man, Charlie loved God deeply and lived his faith through kindness, generosity and service to others. He had a special love for dogs and was always willing to help others, often giving far more than was ever expected. He had a passion for the outdoors and could often be found doing yard work or floating in the pool with a cold drink. Charlie loved being on Lake Gaston on the boat and four-wheeling in West Virginia. He also enjoyed bi-annual fishing trips with his three lifelong friends. He had a great sense of humor, often using wit and gentle teasing to show how much he cared.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanne Foster Melhinch; daughters Megan Baldwin and husband Matt of Wake Forest and Mandy D’Ugo and husband Vince of Creedmoor; grandchildren, Jackson, Olivia, Cooper, Luke and Caroline Baldwin, Evander, Gemma and Lennox D’Ugo; stepchildren Michael Foster, Emily Black and husband Chase, and their son Brooks.

Charlie is preceded in death by parents, Seth and Helen Melhinch; sister, SallyMelhinch; and wife, DeAnn Melhinch.

Charlie was a founding member and patriarch figure at Hope Lutheran Church in Wake Forest.  A celebration of Charlie’s life will be held at 1 o’clock, Wednesday afternoon, February 11, 2026, at Hope Lutheran Church, 3525 Rogers Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587 followed by a visitation at the church.

For family and friends who are unable to attend in person, the service will be available to view by clicking the following link. "Celebration of Life Link" 

Although Charlie’s physical presence is now heartbreakingly absent from our lives, may his gentle, loving spirit continue to inspire and console us. May his memory be a continued blessing to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Charlie’s honor to Hope Lutheran Church of Wake Forest, 3525 Rogers Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587.