Charles R. Rankin

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles (Charlie) Ray Rankin at the age of 87  on Sunday, August 25, 2024. Charlie was born on October 16, 1937, in Marshall County and has lived in Paducah since the 50’s. Charlie was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, son, uncle, cousin, and devoted friend. He lived a life full of love and laughter and brought joy to all those who knew him, but most of all his wife of seventy years, Betty Jean Rankin. 

Charlie was a one-of-a-kind man whose life was defined by his dedication to God, his family, and hard work. After he retired, he could usually be seen walking the mall with his wife, eating at Chick-Fil-A or Cracker Barrel, and spending a lot of afternoons at the Paducah River front enjoying the view with Betty Jean at his side. 

Charlie had a 25-year tenure at Modine Manufacturing in Paducah, and he proudly served as a valued member of the Paducah Laborers Local 1214 until his retirement from the Shawnee Fossil Plant in 2005. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Charlie was a devoted family man. He has left behind a legacy of love and unwavering support to his family, demonstrating through his actions the significance of unity, care, and compassion. Charlie was a devoted active member of Southland Baptist Temple since 1954. He was also a distinguished member of the Paducah Masonic Lodge #127 F&am, symbolizing values of integrity and brotherhood that were important to him throughout his life. 

As we remember Charlie, let us take to heart the beauty of the great outdoors, his passion for UK basketball, the elegance of a dance, and most importantly, the love of family and friends that he so deeply cherished. 

Charlie cherished the great outdoors and spent many joyful moments with family and friends hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, or enjoying a sunny afternoon sitting on the porch next to his wife, Betty Jean. His adventurous spirit beckoned others to join him, creating lasting memories and strong bonds along the way. 

Perhaps one of his greatest joys was ballroom dancing with his beloved wife of 70 years, Betty Jean. The couple spent countless evenings gliding across the dance floor, lost in the rhythm of counting their steps and living their best life together. Their love story was a testament of beauty, companionship, and devotion which inspired all who knew them. 

Above all, Charlie was a family man. He took pride in watching his children grow and being a grandfather and great-grandfather brought him so much joy. The playful laughter of his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids, filled his heart with warmth and he cherished every moment spent in their company, imparting wisdom and stories that they will hold close forever. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Raymond Rankin and Helen Louise (Sikes) Rankin, his five siblings, Ethel Mae Powell, Willie Mae Powell, Etta Roberts, Louise Detie, and Willie Raymond Rankin (Junior), his beloved son Noel Travis Rankin, and three great grandchildren Hunter Rankin, and identical twins Olive and Callum Bucklin. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Betty Jean (Malone), his son Darran Rankin (Lisa), his grandchildren Noel “Travis” Rankin II (Sarah), Matthew Rankin, Hannah Bucklin (Mason), Chase Reaney, Morgan Reaney, Macy Reaney, his 15 great-grandchildren, and a long list of family members and friends who will forever treasure the moments they shared, and the impact Charlie had on their lives. 

Charles (Charlie) Ray Rankin will be deeply missed but never forgotten. He taught those who knew him the true meaning of love, strength, and devotion.

 Rest in peace, dear Charlie, your love will continue to inspire us all. 

A funeral service will be held in his honor on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Southland Baptist Temple at 927 Yarbro Ln. Paducah, KY  42003 with Pastor Luffman & Pastor Franks officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens at 6966 Old US Hwy 45, Paducah, KY  42003. Friends may visit with the family on Tuesday, August 27 from 10:00 AM until the funeral hour at Southland Baptist Temple.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made to Missions or The Gift at Southland Baptist Temple, 927 Yarbro Lane, Paducah, KY.