Charles Lee

Emmitt Mcbride

Charles Lee Emmitt McBride Sr., affectionately known as "T-Mac," was born on February 5, 1930, in Fulton, Missouri, to the late Reverend Albert McBride and Leola Davis McBride.

Charles grew up in Fulton and attended George Washington Carver Grade School and Lincoln Laboratory High School. He continued his education at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, where he earned a bachelor's degree in education. His love for learning led him to pursue advanced studies at Michigan State University and Western Michigan University in philosophy and metaphysics. Charles strongly believed that education was the great equalizer. One of his most memorable sayings was, "The more you learn, the more you earn."

Charles began his career in southeast Missouri, working in Poplar Bluff and Cape Girardeau. He later accepted an opportunity with Muskegon Public Schools and relocated to Muskegon, Michigan. During his distinguished career, he became the first African American administrator in Muskegon. Charles was intelligent, hardworking, and committed to helping others succeed. He touched many lives throughout the community and encouraged others to maintain a positive attitude, build healthy personal relationships, and never lose faith while facing life's challenges.

Charles's faith was an important part of his life. He accepted Christ at an early age at Calvary Baptist Church in Fulton. After moving to Muskegon, he became a faithful member of Greater Harvest Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and treasurer. His love for Christ guided the way he lived, served others, and cared for his family.

Charles enjoyed traveling, bowling, fishing, and listening to good music. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, education, service, and love. He deeply loved his family and encouraged them to invest in themselves, continue learning, and always keep their faith in God.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend Albert and Leola McBride; his son, Carlos L. McBride; his brothers, James McBride, Durwood McBride, Jack McBride, Arnold Ray McBride, Leroy McBride, and Percy McBride his sisters, Pauline McBride, Ruby McBride, and Opal McBride;his grandchildren, Carlos McBride, Kevin McBride, and Carlissa McBride;and His Great Grandchild, DeArian McBride.

Charles leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Rejeana S. McBride; his son, Charles L. McBride Jr.; his sister, Rose (Kenneth) Galbreath; 19 grandchildren; 48 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; and many other relatives, loved ones, friends, former students, and community members whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.