Charles Bird

Charles Daniel Bird, 93, of Staunton, passed away, Friday, March 11, 2011 at Harrisonburg Health and Rehabilitation Center.

He was born Jan. 29, 1918 at Valley Center, in Highland County, a son of the late Clarence D. and Wilda Rexrode Bird.

A 52-year member of St. James United Methodist Church in Churchville, Mr. Bird was a trustee of the church, a member of the administrative board, Blanche Gilbert Bible Class and a longtime member of Churchville Ruritan Club. He served in the U.S. Army medical corps during WWII. Mr. Bird had worked in the CCC Camps and retired from Westinghouse. He will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, especially hunting and riding his four-wheeler, and was an avid sports fan.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Alden and Bill Bird, and six sisters, Thelma and Hazel Bird, Mary Smith, Ruth Hamilton, Mildred Gutshall and Merlyn Gum.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Wilma “Ruth” Johnson Bird, whom he married Oct. 28, 1950; a special pet, Joy; and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was the last member of his immediate family.

A funeral service was conducted 11 a.m., Monday, March 14 at St. James United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Rebecca Fulk officiating.

Burial was in Oaklawn Memory Gardens.

Active pallbearers were Seth Smith, Jim Neff, Daniel Bird, Winifred Smith Jr., Gary Gum, Bob Rexrode and Bob Kite. Honorary pallbearers were the Blanche Gilbert Bible Class, Buck White, John McManamay, George Bird, Joe Brock, Lloyd Rexrode, Sam Brown, Brad Mowyer and Jarred Austin.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. James United Methodist Church, c/o Mary Ann Byrd, 337 Hotchkiss Rd, Churchville, Va. 24421.