NATCHEZ — Memorial services for Charles Ray McCranie, 72, of Natchez, who returned to his heavenly Father on the morning of Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Laird Funeral Home Chapel.

A graveside service will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Charles was born Jan. 8, 1947, in Fort Worth, Texas, the son of Leroy McCranie and Phyllis Jean McCranie.

Charles was a Natchez man his whole life. He graduated from Natchez High School in 1965, where he excelled as an athlete in track, setting records. He was named Mr. Natchez High and Most Popular his senior year. His great sense of humor would always remind family and friends, “I would’ve been voted Most Handsome, too, but I wasn’t allowed to win three things.” His wit and big heart defined him. He built tires for Armstrong and Fidelity Tire for more than 30 years. Through the years, he was well known as a family man, an avid powerlifter, and a dedicated coach of football and Dixie Youth Baseball. He had a huge heart for animals. His furry friends, Gumbeaux and Scruffy, will certainly miss their special human.

Through the years, Charles was a man of character, integrity and kindness. He was well respected and loved by his family and so many friends he held dear to his heart. We find great comfort knowing that he is now at peace with the Lord, but he will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; as well as by his wife, Donna Rae McCranie; and his eldest son, Charles Jeffery McCranie.

Charles is survived by his beloved daughter, Kassidy McCranie Adams; and his son, Brandon McCranie, both of Natchez; his “Pops” legacy will live on through his only special grandchild, Skylar Rhea Adams; and one most precious great-granddaughter, Emersyn Rae Weatherly.

Pallbearers will be his close friends, Kenny Isbell, Bill Hinson, Andy Yates, Jay Yates, Tristan Weatherly and Casey Gilbert.

Honorary pallbearer will be his nephew, Anthony McCranie.

Donations may be made to the Humane Society in his loving memory.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.