Obituary of Charles "Charlie" James Nearing

Charles (Charlie) James Nearing February 23, 1945 – January 25, 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles (Charlie) James Nearing, aged 79, on January 25, 2025. Born on February 23, 1945, he was the cherished son of the late Alphonse and Veronica Nearing. Charlie was a dedicated teacher for 25 years, starting his career at Miners Memorial School and spent the majority of his teaching career at Breton Education Centre. Upon retirement he continued to educate youth for the next decade through his business, Complete Driver Training. His passion for education left a lasting impact on countless students over the years. A proud member of the Lingan Golf Club for many years, Charlie loved spending time on the golf course. He also enjoyed traveling, gardening, and walking the dogs. In his younger days, he played hockey and remained a devoted fan, often found in the rink cheering on his grandson. Charlie is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Edna Nearing (née Jamieson); his children, Sonya (Peter) O’Sullivan, Jamie (Jennifer) Nearing, and David (Wanda) Nearing; and his treasured grandchildren, Julie and Kyle. He was affectionately known as “poppy” by Julie and Kyle and his honorary grandchildren Emily and Brooklyn. He will also be missed by his siblings Joseph (Lisa) Nearing, Patricia Pembrooke, and Helen (Fred) Mackie; brother-in-law Chuck Jamieson; sisters-in-law Mary Anne (John) MacPhee and Donna Zegray; his special nieces Suzanne Burton and Michelle Nearing and many other nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Charlie was predeceased by his infant son James Bradley Nearing; his sister Bonnie Burton; and his brothers Alphonse “Junior” Nearing and Thomas “Tucker” Nearing. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m., followed by a service at 2:00 p.m., at T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Services, 370 Reserve Street, Glace Bay, NS. 902-849-4199. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Charlie’s memory to the Cape Breton Cancer Centre or Palliative Care. Words of comfort may be sent to the family by visiting www.tracey.com. The family would like to thank Sarah and Sam from Blissful Living Homecare, Linda from Palliative Care, the VON, and Dominion Pharmasave. Charlie will be remembered for his kind heart, dedication to family and community, and the joy he brought to those around him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him. Words of remembrance may be expressed to Charlie’s family by visiting: www.tjtracey.com.