Wilson is mourning the loss of Charles “Charlie” Horace Bedgood IV, a respected business leader and dedicated community advocate, who passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the age of 41. His death has left a deep sense of loss among family, friends, colleagues, and the many organizations he faithfully served.
Charlie was the president and owner of Carolina Office Products Inc., where he was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and pride in building relationships with clients and employees alike. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, he remained closely connected to his alma mater and maintained lifelong friendships formed during his time as a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.
Service to the Wilson community was a defining part of Charlie’s life. Over the years, he held leadership roles in numerous civic and service organizations. He served twice as President of the Greater Wilson Rotary Club, was a long-standing board member of CHEW, and dedicated nearly a decade to the Wilson Downtown Development Corporation, where he progressed from secretary to president. Charlie also served as Past Exalted Ruler of the Wilson Elks Lodge #840 and, most recently, was named President of Wilson Properties, a role he held with great honor.
Beyond his professional and civic achievements, Charlie was admired for his curiosity, creativity, and warmth. A history major with a passion for learning, he was especially fascinated by World War II and was known for his vast and engaging knowledge. Friends fondly recall his love for painting and his enthusiasm for Warhammer, where he spent countless hours custom-painting characters and enjoying friendly competition. His quick wit, humor, and genuine kindness made him someone people naturally gravitated toward.
Charlie is survived by his parents, Deborah “D.D.” Bedgood and Charles H. Bedgood III; his sister, Baker Bedgood Stallings, and her husband, Robert; his brother, Connor Bedgood, and his wife, Sophia; and his beloved nieces, Ella and Rory, who held a special place in his heart.
A memorial service celebrating Charlie’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church, 414 Sunset Road NW in Wilson, with Rev. Nick DeMuynck officiating. Burial will be private.
Charlie Bedgood will be remembered as a leader who served selflessly, a friend who made others feel valued, and a man whose generosity, intellect, and spirit left a lasting mark on the Wilson community.