Mr. Elma Charles was born October 2, 1936 in Winston-Salem, NC to Mr. and Mrs. Willie Charles. Elma Charles departed his life on Friday, December 20, 2013 at Winston-Salem Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Elma attended Atkins High School and earned his High School Diploma. After finishing High School he served in the United States Army. After serving his country he worked seven years at R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and later retired from Thomasville Furniture in 2000 after working for 19 years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister and daughter.

Elma is survived by his lifetime companion, Mary Robinson; five sons, Terry Robinson, Elmer Robinson, Michael Robinson, Charles Robinson, Roland Vanlandingham; two daughters Sandra Robinson and Arva Charles; and a host of grand and great-grandkids, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 12noon Saturday, December 28, 2013 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel with Bishop Todd Fulton officiating. The family visitation will be held from 11am until 12noon on Saturday at the Chapel.