Charles Lee King, 96, passed away on March 1 at his home in Memphis, Tennessee.  He was born on August 14, 1925 in Sikeston, Missouri to Guy and Winnie Haney King.

Charles grew up in Memphis, TN. He joined the Merchant Marines and saw combat action during World War II.  After the war he worked various jobs until he was hired as an architect at Matthews Blow Pipe company.  He eventually became president/owner of the company and worked there for about 35 years.

Charles married Norene Piggott in 1950 in New Orleans, LA. They were happily married for 72 years. Charles was a lifetime member Merchant Marine Association and Marine Corps League and as a youth became an Eagle Scout.  He enjoyed reading and history.

Charles is survived by his wife Norene of Memphis, Tennessee; his nephews Rick Cisowski (Dottie), Mike Cisowski (Nancy), John King (Becca), and niece Naomi King.

Charles was proceeded in death by his parents, Guy and Winnie King, brothers Harold King, Jimmy King, and sisters Marie King Stanhope and Mary King Bailey and nephew Guy Bailey.

A burial service will be at Forrest Hill South at a date that has not been set at this time.

In lieu of flowers the family request memorial donations be made to St. Jude Hospital.