Charles L. Cranford, III of Greensboro and Oak Island, died February 19, 2023. Mr. Cranford was born in Asheboro, NC June 19, 1935, the son of Charles L. Cranford, Jr and Grace Beddingfield Cranford Moffit.
He graduated from St. Paul, NC High School and received his degree in economics from Guilford College. He had a long career in textiles, starting in the corporate office of Burlington Industries and continuing with Texfi Industries when it was based in Liberty. He was with ICI Fibers when the division was sold to Dupont and was responsible for all the details of closing the office in Greensboro. Immediately after the sale, he joined Sapona Manufacturing Company in Cedar Falls, NC, where he handled sales, new product development, and yarn procurement. He retired in 2001 to Oak Island. He highly valued his contacts and associates in the textile industry.
Mr. Cranford was an enthusiastic Carolina sports fan, had a keen interest and knowledge of classic cars, enjoyed traveling with his wife, and loved living at Oak Island, NC. He returned to Greensboro to spend more time with his sons.
Mr. Cranford is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ann Ivey Cranford, sons Charles IV and John, all of Greensboro, and half-brother and sister of Florida, Wallace Cranford and Dr. Margaret (Terry) C. Mishoe. Memorial contributions may be made to the music fund or the pastor’s discretionary fund at Christ United Methodist Church, or to Friends Home West, Greensboro, NC. Hanes-Lineberry on N. Elm Street is assisting the family. Online condolences may be offered at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com.
