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Charles Mitchell “Mickey” Driver, Jr., passed away at the Novant Health Glenn A. Kiser Hospice House on Wednesday, July 17, 2019. Born in Caldwell County, NC, he lived a full and vibrant life. His legacy continues with his wife Patricia C. Driver, children, Jonathan, Andrew, and Leslie, and granddaughter Jessica. He is also survived by brothers, Steve (Kay), John (Sandy), and Ted (Diane), sisters-in-law, Pam McAlpine and Denny Driver, in addition to cousins, nieces and nephews.
Mr. Driver graduated from South Rowan High School, received his Bachelors of Music from East Carolina University, and received his Master’s degree from the University of Georgia, where he began his career in music education. Mr. Driver was the beloved band director at A.L. Brown High School where he inspired countless students to pursue their passions in music.
As an avid trumpet player, he dedicated his time to performing in local engagements, ranging from the Salisbury Brass Quintet to the First Baptist Church’s annual Singing Christmas Tree, to the weddings of his loved ones. He enjoyed playing tennis from high school through his adult years.
Mr. Driver is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Jewel Driver of Landis.
May he always be remembered as a kind, selfless, and dedicated father and grandfather.
The family will receive friends and relatives on Saturday, July 20, 2019 at Powles Staton Funeral Home in Rockwell from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Novant Health Glenn A. Kiser Hospice House 1229 Statesville Blvd. Salisbury NC 28144 or to the Faithful Friends Animal Sanctuary 220 Grace Church Rd. Salisbury NC 28147.
Carolina Cremation is honored to serve the Driver family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.
Denny says
I will always remember your super corny jokes! They were terrible and I loved that you knew so many of them! Peace dear brother.
Suzanne says
Mickey was my cousin and one of my childhood playmates. I have fond memories of those days and am proud to have been part of his extended family. He will be greatly missed.
Melanie Smith Sigmon says
As “the Melancholy Baby” of this generation, it’s just unfathomable that I’ve lost another first cousin. Mickey played trumpet in my wedding with his brothers. I hate that cancer took him from us and that I won’t be able to be with his family the way that he was when we lost my parents (I’m on my way to Philadelphia and NYC). Please know, dear family, how my heart breaks for your loss. He will be missed on earth, but he’s joined the band with Uncle Charles! Much love to the entire Driver family.
Lu Graham says
Mickey was my best friend. His warmth, intellect, talent, and compassion never failed. I was so fortunate to teach with him for over twenty years and to continue our friendship after he retired from A.L. Brown Hs. He was a consummate musician and could make that trumpet sing. I have so many wonderful memories my heart is bursting. He and his beautiful family opened their hearts to me and made me feel welcome and wanted. God give them (his family) comfort, peace, and strength during this difficult time. My tears are flowing, not only for our loss but for the joy Mickey is experiencing in heaven now! A great man he was and the greatest friend a person could ever have. I will miss you my dearest friend and in my heart my brother. Love to all.
Tommy Lindsay says
I will never forget Mickey, he was my band teacher in high school. I learned so much from him about music and life. May the Lord bless his family!
Jennifer Balentine says
My heart goes out to the family! Mr. Driver was a wonderful man, teacher and musician. This is a sad day for the A.L. Brown band. He and Ms. Graham were the heart of the band and gave us so many wonderful memories. I will forever be grateful for the love you have shown to all of us. So proud to have been a part of the BIG GREEN MACHINE!!! Heaven’s band is in great hands! We love you! A.L. Brown C/O ‘96
Mike Musselwhite says
Mickey Driver has always remained an inspiration in my life. My most sincere condolences go out to the family. I will never forget the good times we had as I was in my youth performing in the marching band. His lessons will never be forgotten and his legacy will forever live on. I can only hope that my son will have an opportunity to follow a role model as fine as Mr. Driver. We will keep the family in our prayers.
Kevin Daniels says
Mr. Driver was my trumpet teacher in Middle School and band director for the first 2 years of high school. I remember him as a very patient and methodical teacher. He actively encouraged me to develop my talents to their greatest extent. The lessons in leadership he passed on made a lasting impression on me that carried throughout my education and career.
I am grateful that he was my teacher. I always thought of him as the model for the directors my daughters had as they pursued their music education.
I pray God Almighty in heaven comfort Mrs. Driver and his family as they grieve.
Kevin Daniels
Campbell High School
Smyrna, Ga.
Class of ‘81
Ann & Gerald says
Driver family: I was shocked to see that Mickey had passed away. Will someone in the family please contact me. I taught with Pat when they lived in Powder Springs, GA. My email isann.harris.harmon@gmail.com. I’ve been trying to get Pat’s contact info for over a year. She & I became very close when we stopped teaching Five Year Kindergarten & both had babies. She gave me adult piano lessons & we would put my daughter in her carry seat & Andy in his & give them a concert. Much love & sympathy to Pat, John, Andy,
Leslie & Jessica. 678 923 6270