It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charles Roy Racey Sr., of Cumberland.

Still youthful at 80, he died on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital.

Known early in life as "Shorty", his short stature did not match his large personality, so he preferred to be called "Charlie".

Born in Keyser, W.Va., he was a self-made man with a sense of adventure and a zest for life.

As a young man, he owned his own video store but eventually retired with the New York School System.

Charlie was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and proudly wore patriotic eagles on many of his colorful shirts.

He was sincere, often generous, and had a tender heart for children and animals.

Known for his bold jewelry, he had quite the watch collection.

His perfect day included a good meal and a game of set-back.

He also liked shooting clay birds and took great joy in making his own homemade Italian sausage spaghetti sauce.

Fearless in ways, Charlie took flying lessons and contemplated getting his own gyroplane!

He loved cars as well, especially Corvettes, and even appeared on the TV show, "Phantom Works."

He truly loved life, and one of his favorite sayings was, rhetorically, "Who's having more fun than us?"

We will miss him so very much.

Plans for a memorial service are pending and will be announced at a later date.