Rufus Wiley Erwin

Rufus Wiley Erwin

Sunrise - July 25, 1947 - Sunset - February 13, 2020 

Rufus Wiley Erwin of Charlotte departed his earthly home on February 14 and transitioned to his heavenly home after a short illness at Novant Health Hospital in Charlotte. He was born in Charlotte, North Carolina on July 25, 1947, to the late William Robert Erwin, Sr. and Otelia Frances Erwin. 

Rufus professed his faith in the Lord on January 12, 1958, under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Thomas A. Jenkins at Statesville Avenue Presbyterian Church. He converted his faith in the Lord to Catholic rituals while residing in Atlanta, Georgia. 

Rufus received his early education in the Charlotte/Mecklenburg schools. He graduated from West Charlotte Senior High School. He continued his education at West Virginia State College/University. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Rufus realized and valued his education. He received many honors and awards that attest to his achievements (Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities, Men's Sente Award). Rufus was on honor student during his matriculation in high school and college. He served in the United States Army Reserve and received an honorable discharge after two years tour of duty. He received a letter of commendation for superior Military Training.

Rufus was an active member of the West Charlotte High School Alumni Association. He demonstrated commitment and dedication serving many years on the Executive Board. He demonstrated his leadership as President of the Association. He devoted and volunteered many hours as a reviewer of Senior Projects and Scholarships. 

Rufus was a retiree of Travelers Insurance Company. He was a public relations manager at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center in Charlotte.  In addition, he was employed by Alamo as a sales representative. Rufus was a staff employee with the Internal Revenue Service. 

Rufus was preceded in death by his father William Robert Erwin, Sr. and a sister Vanzie Lee Erwin both of Charlotte.

He is survived by his mother Otelia Erwin of the home, a son Douglas Erwin of Boston, Massachusetts, one aunt Colethia Powell(Leonard) Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, two brothers Robert Erwin, Jr of Charlotte, Dr. Alexander Erwin of North Wilkesboro, two devoted nieces, Kandyce Himes (Jeff) of Charlotte, Dr. Kimberly Erwin of Greensboro, three nephews, Keith Deveruux of Wilkesboro, Dr. Michael Erwin (Adina) of Atlanta and Spencer Erwin (Tobi) of Charlotte, Two brother-like friends Steve Hayes and Chauncey Jones of Charlotte and host relatives and friends. A special group of West Charlotte Classmates (1965) and members of the West Charlotte Alumni Association.

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