Charles Niager

Charles Edward Niager, 90, of Chattanooga, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2012.He was born in Decatur, Ala., the son of Rev. Roy and Clora Niager. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Roy Jones Niager; and infant sister, Esther Ione.Charles was a member of Hixson First Baptist Church where he served faithfully for 45 years. His church family was an integral part of his life. He served as a Sunday School teacher, chairman of the deacons and in various other capacities throughout the years.Charles received the Purple Heart while serving in the U.S. Army in World War II.He was comptroller at Fowler Brothers Furniture Co. for over 20 years before his retirement in 1984 and was honored as Boss of the Year by his colleagues. He was a member and held the position of president of the National Association of Accountants.Charles was a humble man. He was our dearest friend, a kind, gentle, and loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and great-grandfather--a man of integrity.He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 65 years, Willene Niager; three daughters, and two sons, Sheryl (Reid) Saxton, Brushton, N.Y., Karen (Tim) Saxton, Chattanooga, Patrice ("Bubba") Mitchell, Albany, Ga., Keith (Janet) Niager, Savannah, Ga., Paul (Maribeth) Niager, Jacksonville, Fla.; 10 grandchildren; a great granddaughter, and a niece and nephew. We all loved and respected him deeply and will carry his memory in our hearts forever. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Avalon Hospice.The funeral will be at noon Friday, Oct. 5, 2012, at the North Chapel of the Chattanooga Funeral Home, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson. Rev. Terry Shannon and sons, Keith and Paul Niager will conduct the service.Honorary pallbearers will be members of his former Sunday School class (Ed Conley, teacher) and his present Sunday School class (John Alvis, teacher).The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. today, Oct. 4, 2012 and one hour before the service at the North Chapel Funeral Home.Burial will follow in Chattanooga National Cemetery on Holtzclaw Avenue.Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaNorthChapel.com.