Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

December 20, 2024

CHARLOTTE – Earle Russell (Russ) Wentz of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the age of 82 surrounded by his loving family.  Known affectionately as ‘Big Red’ by his friends and ‘Big Poppy’ by his family, he leaves behind a lasting legacy through the profound impact he had on all who knew him.

Born July 1, 1942, Russ was the son of Earle Jerry Wentz, Jr. and Merle Horne Wentz of Roanoke, Virginia. Russ graduated from Virginia Episcopal High School and went on to attend the University of Virginia, where he excelled as a pitcher on the baseball team.  His talent on the mound did not go unnoticed, as he was scouted by the New York Yankees during his college years, a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication to the sport.

After college, he began his successful career in banking spending almost 20 years with North Carolina National Bank (NCNB), 2 years with Craigie Inc, and 16 years with First Union National Bank.  He was widely regarded in the industry and met many of his lifelong friends through his experience on the trading desk.

Outside of work, Russ had a deep passion for college sports and took great pride in coaching youth teams, including baseball at Myers Park Trinity Little League.  A devoted fan, he never missed a UVA or Duke game.  In 2000, Russ married Elizabeth “Meb” Wentz of Greensboro, North Carolina.  Together, they built a life in Charlotte, where they cherished time with family and friends, enjoyed playing golf, and spent memorable days at Charlotte Country Club.  Russ and Meb also shared a special love for their cherished pets, who brought them endless joy. 

Russ is survived by his wife, Meb and their children, Elizabeth White (Ian), Jonathan Wentz (Johny), Jacquelyn Tugwell (Matt), and Jennifer Lohr; 11 grandchildren, and his brother, John Wentz (Sallye). 

The family wishes to thank Dr. Justin Favaro, Hadley, and the wonderful staff at Oncology Specialists of Charlotte for their unparalleled compassion and care over the past six years.

A service to celebrate Russ’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, January 10, 2025, 1at Myers Park Presbyterian Church, 2501 Oxford Place, Charlotte, NC, where he served as a deacon.  The service will be livestreamed at:  https://myersparkpres.org/live/ for those unable to attend in person.  The family will receive friends following the service in Oxford Hall.    

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to The Humane Society of Charlotte, 1348 Parker Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208. (https://humanesocietyofcharlotte.org/)   

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.