Obituary of Charlotte Ella Dreibelbis

Charlotte Ella Neubert Dreibelbis, 95, of Indian Land, SC, went home to be with God on Tuesday, September 5th, 2023, at Watercrest Memory Care after a long bout with Alzheimer’s Disease. Charlotte was born December 20, 1927, in Reading, PA, to Ernst and Ella (Toepel) Neubert. Charlotte was bright and clever as a child, and a hard worker. She married high school sweetheart Vernon Joseph Dreibelbis in August of 1947 and remained with him for more than 67 years of marriage—a lifetime for both of them. She and Vernon left Pennsylvania and set their roots down in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she served in a number of positions with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, including secretary for Beverly Woods Elementary and Administrative Assistant to Chris Folk, Associate Superintendent. She excelled in these positions because she was highly organized and detail-oriented. With her finesse and polish, she strived to make sure everything she did was done well. She loved and cared for the many school children she came into contact with as if they were her own.

Charlotte and Vernon lived in Charlotte on Woodwardia Drive, and were beloved neighbors and friends to their community. They were faithful members of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Charlotte serving in many capacities. Charlotte was a tremendous Elder of the church, with a knack for speaking from the heart and offering a generous listening ear for those who needed a friend. In addition, she served as chairperson for various committees, and assisted with so many creative projects—including taking on the making of handmade Christmon ornaments for the children of the church. She could make any table or reception or room look beautiful. In her later years, Charlotte became an ardent supporter and active volunteer for the Dilworth Soup Kitchen. She greeted each guest with a warm smile and if she missed a day, people would always ask about Ms. Charlotte. She was a talented cook, seamstress, writer, and designer. It seemed there was nothing Charlotte couldn’t do. One of her most obvious talents to those who knew her was her ability to write lovely letters and cards. Most of those cards that were carefully crafted have been treasured by friends and relatives alike through the years. The wife of an athletic coach, Charlotte enjoyed being a spectator and supporter for various sports games—especially those of her sons and grandchildren. She was often the cheering section for many important people in her life.

Charlotte was the recipient of various awards and accolades including the CWF Pioneer Woman award in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in North Carolina for leadership and service in 2003.

Charlotte outlived many loved ones, including her beloved husband Vernon Joseph Dreibelbis, her grandson Dean Vernon Dreibelbis, Jr. (DJ), her brother Earney Neubert and sister Dorothy Walters, her parents, and her nephew Lee Hurley. She is survived by her sons Dean Vernon Dreibelbis and Mark Reed Dreibelbis (Rhonda), her former daughter in law Lou Gardner, her grandsons Kevin and Dusty, great-granddaughter Callie, and many treasured nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in Charlotte’s memory to the Trustees Fund at First Christian Church of Charlotte, 1200 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203 ( or choose Charlotte Dreibelbis Memorial Fund at https://app.easytithe.com/App/Giving/fccclt).

Services for Charlotte will be held on Saturday, September 30th. At 12 noon, in a beautiful expression of their life together, the ashes of both Charlotte and her husband Vernon will be buried side by side at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC.

Visitation with family will follow at 1:30 pm in the First Christian Church sanctuary, 1200 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC.

A memorial service for Charlotte will be held at 2:30 pm, at First Christian Church, 1200 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC, www.fcc-charlotte.org, Rev. Jolin Wilks McElroy, officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hankins and Whittington Funeral Service, 1111 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203.

Condolences may be made at www.HankinsandWhittington.com.