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James Reginald “Reggie” Auten, age 70, passed away peacefully in his home on March 29, 2023, after a ten-month battle with cancer with his devoted wife by his side.
He was born August 18, 1952, in Charlotte, NC, to James and Dorothy Auten. Reggie met the love of his life in 1994, Lori Chadwick, and they had been married for thirteen years.
Reggie graduated from West Mecklenburg High School and went into business with his dad. Like his dad, he had a passion for real estate. Reggie had a successful career in real estate. In the 1990s, he received the award for selling the most homes in Charlotte and sold several homes to famous people. In his retirement, he continued to run a residential rental business with his sister.
Reggie was a devoted husband, brother, uncle, and friend. His commitment to Lori and his family was unwavering. He is well known for his infectious laugh and an enormous gift of empathy which filled every space in his life. His gift of humor made every occasion a beautiful experience. The party started when Reggie entered the room. Everyone you meet has a humorous and kind story about our Reggie.
He is survived by his devoted wife Lori, who took excellent care of him and never left his side during his journey with cancer. In addition, he is survived by his sister, Amy Auten Branscome (Butch); nephew, Lee Branscome (fiancé Alyssa); niece, Courtney Poole (Clark), and his new great nephew, Carter James Poole. He was also a cherished member of the Chadwick family, who will miss him dearly.
There is no doubt that Dot and James (Reggie’s parents) threw their arms open wide as Reggie ascended into heaven.
In lieu of flowers, tax-deductible donations may be sent to: Spring Camp Cheerio (In honor of Reggie Auten) Attention: Kristy Burke, treasurer 7417 Ritter Drive Charlotte, NC 28270.
Camp Cheerio is a camp devoted to deaf and hard-of-hearing children that Reggie’s niece directs yearly. This fund assists families who cannot afford to attend. It continues to help families navigate the waters of a disability.
Reggie donated his body to science as he said he wanted to do something good in his last days on earth.
A date for a memorial service to celebrate his life will be announced later.
Carolina Cremation is assisting the Auten family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.
Daniel Johnston says
I will greatly miss Reggie, his smile and sense of humor always brightened my day, he would often come by my place of work to share a moment with me in his day, and usually bring a tool or project for me to fix or repair, or just talk, about days long gone when I worked for his Dad or something that was on his mind, you will remain in my prayers Lori as you face the road ahead, as well as you Amy and your family to.
Gary Stewart says
Lori and Amy,my condolence to you. Your husband and brother leave great memories for me. He was a best friend at West Meck., a running buddy in our teen years, my traveling buddy to Ocean Drive and my best man at my wedding. I am thankful for the blessing of good memories of good buddy.
Brenda Gladden says
A big void in the Moore’s Chapel Community and in the lives of his family and friends.
He always brought joy, laughter and great philosophical thoughts to the conversations at hand. A big hearted and kind friend. I will miss you, my friend.
Much love, sympathy and prayers for his precious wife Lori and sister Amy.
The picture is worth a thousand words and memories!
Michelle (& Robert) Watkins says
So sorry to hear this. Reggie was such a happy and kind soul and he always had something nice to say when I saw him at church. He will be missed greatly. Our prayers to Lori and to Reggie’s family and friends.
Richard and Leigh says
Reggie was kind and gentle giant of a man. He made a huge impact on Richard from the first moment they met, and me, and we are so blessed to have known him for the short years we did. A truly GOOD person. Lorie, we are here if you need anything at all.
Debbie Holloman says
Lori, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband, Reggie. I know you took great care of him. I will keep you and the rest of his family in my prayers.
Judy Lewis says
Lori,
I am sorry for your loss! Asking God to give you and your family an abundance of His love as you navigate this part of the journey.
Charlene Farris says
I am so sorry for your loss. I have known Reggie since Amy and I were college roommates and he always made me laugh ..He was a good man who loved his family and he will be missed. I hope that all of the memories you shared will bring comfort as you go through the difficult journey of grieving . I’m so sorry for your loss.
Kim Williams says
My prayers for you and Reggie’s family and friends. May God comfort you and your faith carry you through the coming days in your life.
Pam Hentschke says
Dear Lori “Hentschke”!!
You have been an unsurpassed, matchless friend to me for many years. During those years I had the opportunity to meet and fall ‘in love’ with Reggie! 🙂 He is such a dear, sweet man and for all the stories told by him and of him, you just can’t help but feel that way. I am very humbled by the fact that during his strong fight with his awful cancer that Reggie allowed me to visit on days when he wouldn’t let other visitors.
His wit and unassuming humor always was best of show and so entertaining. On the other side, he was very compassionate, caring and loved you, Lori, with his whole heart. There was no doubt about that as it was so evident as he bowed to you and honored you as his wife. I know he is missing you as much as you are missing him. Thank the good Lord for his faith – and yours- as we believe that he has forged a path for you and all of his loved ones into heaven. And so for that I can just say, “look out Heaven!”
God cannot mend your loss, but please allow Him to heal your broken heart and fill you with His peace. My prayers are for the entire family.
Neal Sparrow says
I will definitely miss my friend Reggie. I always looked forward to him coming to eat lunch with me every Friday. We had some very interesting conversations. Lori, thank you for some of the delicious food you often sent with Reggie. Rest In Peace my friend.
Lisa Skinner says
I met Reggie years ago and haven’t seen him in many years, but I remember his big personality , his big heart and his love for Lori. He will be missed
Bimpe Onamade says
Dear Lori,
Even though I didn’t get to meet Mr. Reggie, he was the love of your. My condolences to you and the rest of the family. He will be missed, am sure of it. Stay strong Lori, you are in my thoughts at this time.
Steve/Debbie Maynard says
Lori, I wanted to let you know we were so sorry to hear about the passing of Reggie. We met him many years ago when my brother Butch was getting ready to marry Amy. He was so nice in welcoming us into the family with his smile and laughter. We weren’t around many times but always remember what a kind man he was. We have been thinking about you and saying prayers for you during this time.Steve and Debbie Maynard
Wendy Griffin says
Lori,
Even though I didn’t know Reggie, he must have been a great man to deserve your love. I am so sorry for the void in your life with his passing. Remember the great memories in the hard, quiet times and he is with you again.
Steve Godfrey says
I heard a song last year by Adeem the Artist called “Carolina” that mentioned Sam Wilson Road. My first thought was Reggie Auten, my best friend for a stretch in high school. Reggie rode shotgun in my ‘64 Super Sport, and we kicked up some dust on the west side of Charlotte. Reggie was larger than life and had an hard honesty about him and a passion for living. I’ve thought about him all my life. He stamped my heart. I’m glad he left happiness in his wake.