Charles (Charlie) Robert Neighbors, 85, passed away Saturday, June 25, 2016. He was born September 10, 1930 in Dunbar, Pa., the son of the late Joseph L. and Elsie E. Forman Neighbors. He was a graduate of the Dunbar Township High School class of 1948. After serving in the United States Army, he worked for McCroy's Department Stores. He attended the University of Florida for one year before transferring to California University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Social Studies and a minor in English, graduating with honors. He later attended the University of Pittsburgh where he earned a Masters of Education. He was a high school history and driver's education teacher, later becoming the Assistant Principal of the Connellsville Area Senior High School, from which he retired in 1987 after 30 years. Also, he was in charge of activities at the Connellsville Area Schools. He enjoyed spending time playing games with Anna and Emma, and especially studying with Emma.
He was a lifelong member of the Dunbar Wesley United Methodist Church, where he served as Sunday School Superintendent, as well as a Sunday School teacher. He loved God and family, served on various church committees, and was instrumental in starting Blood Drives at school. During church services, he enjoyed hearing Susan play and sing. He was also a member of the Gideons International.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Cecilia Ann Lucas Neighbors. Together they had two children, Susan Neighbors of Dunbar and Carl Neighbors and wife Pamela of Connellsville. He is also survived by two military honors will be accorded by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 21.granddaughters, Anna Friel of Connellsville and Emma Friel of Dunbar, sisters Louise Hamilton of Willoughby, Ohio and Pearl Kirkland of Dillsburg, Pa,, and brother James B. Neighbors of Verona, Va., as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, sisters Ella Jean Dwire and Lois Martinchalk and a brother Joseph Neighbors.
Friends will be received at the Stephen R. Haky Funeral Home, 603 N. Gallatin Ave Ext., Uniontown, Pa. on Wednesday, June 29, from 12 pm until 8 pm.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Dunbar Wesley United Methodist Church on Thursday, June 30, from 10 am until 1 pm, the Hour of Service with Pastor Douglas Johnson officiating.
Interment will follow at Green Ridge Memorial Park, where military honors will be accorded by VFW Post 21.