Carl Ray Westbrook

Carl Ray Westbrook of Charlotte peacefully passed away on June 30, 2024.

He was born in Raleigh, NC, on December 14, 1931, to the late William Gurney Westbrook and Chellie Raiford Westbrook. He was predeceased by his wife, Mable Jacqueline Carroll Westbrook.

Carl was a graduate of Mars Hill College and Wake Forest University. In 1953, Carl met Jacque on a blind date. Early in their courtship, Carl deployed to Korea to serve in the Army. Their love story spanned the globe as they wrote letters to each other daily, most of which they kept for the duration of their lives. Carl returned to the States and the two married in November 1955. Their 61 years of marriage were Christ-centered and filled with the joy that comes from being with the love of your life.

Carl was active in his churches, especially at College Acres Baptist in Wilmington and Chantilly Baptist and Cornerstone Baptist in Charlotte. In later life, he and Jacque were active in their beloved Sunday School class at Carmel Baptist Church in Matthews.

Carl spent part of his career as Personnel Director at Riegel Paper Company (International Paper) where he made significant contributions before moving to Sonoco as Labor Relations Director. He ultimately joined the family business, Carroll Aligning Service, serving as Secretary and Business Manager. Upon retiring in 1999, Carl and Jacque cherished the simple joys of time spent together, whether at home, traveling, or visiting their home on Ocean Isle Beach. They especially loved spending time with their children and grandchildren. Carl loved to read, particularly about World War II, and had an encyclopedic knowledge on the subject.

Those who knew him recall Carl’s godliness, thoughtfulness, patience, generous heart, and witty personality. Anyone meeting him inevitably was charmed by his sweet manner. He was observant and inquisitive. His native intelligence and wisdom gained from a thoughtful and faith-filled life shone through in his business and personal interactions. His quiet strength, perhaps more often felt than seen, made an impression upon many. Carl had a way of bringing joy to those he encountered.

Carl will be remembered for his kindness, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to friends and family. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Carl is survived by his children Scott Westbrook (Janet) and Crista Toler (Richard), and grandchildren Bethany Westbrook, Nathan Westbrook, and Brody Toler, as well as his older sister Myrtle White of Orlando. He was a cherished presence in their lives and leaves behind a legacy of strength and compassion.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, July 10, from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. A service to celebrate Carl's life will be held Thursday, July 11, at 10:00 am. Both will be held at Hankins & Whittington Funeral Home, 1111 East Blvd, Charlotte. Interment will follow the service at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte.

Memorial donations may be made to The Independence Fund, www.independencefund.org. Please note: In Memory of Carl Westbrook.