Born on March 24, 1983, Madison Henry Herndon, II, age 37, moved to his eternal home on October 17, 2020. Affectionately referred to as “Buddy” by close friends and family, he was known for his handsome gentleman approach to mankind. Buddy’s calming spirit allowed others to love him unconditionally, reciprocating his light.
Buddy’s Character
God was generous in HIS favor when creating Buddy with Intelligence, love, empathy and selflessness. Recently, Buddy visited his grandma during her bath time. The nurse asked Buddy if he could wait a few minutes while she bathed Grandma. Buddy’s response was “I will do it”. Another example of his character is when his sister-in-law was working on a school project. She expressed her frustration on how to complete it while conversing with Buddy. In true Buddy fashion, his response was “Don’t worry about it, I got you”. Buddy earned an “A” on that project.
Evidence of Life
Buddy was the last of three children born to Brenda and Thurman Herndon, Sr., in Raleigh, North Carolina at Rex Hospital. His birth was well-received by his parents, paternal grandmother (deceased), his brother, Sonny (deceased) and especially by his older sister, Nickie. In his elementary years, Buddy attended Lockhart Elementary School, progressed to East Wake Middle School and graduated from East Wake High School in 2001. While at East Wake High, Buddy was the captain of the Tennis Team and gained a wide range of knowledge and experience in tile, electrical installations, HVAC and general construction working with Tile Worx.
After high school graduation, Buddy attended North Carolina Central University for two years. During his first year, Buddy was inducted into the Freshman Honor Society. However, he decided that school was not for him and decided to take another path. Buddy kept busy with after school in various recreational activities.
Although Buddy embraced a gentle and humble spirit, he let his hair down while playing in the Raleigh/Cary Hockey League, thus earning the nickname “Buddy Love”. Buddy also showcased his exponential brain power when he participated in Trivia Night at a local Knightdale bar, proving to be a challenge to other contestants.
When he entered the workforce, he went to work for his brother at Herndon Construction until 2012 as a Site Manager. His career transitioned to repair of cell towers. Buddy remained in this field of work until his death.
After living a full bachelor life, he met the love of his life, Kimberly (White) Herndon in 2011. The two were blissfully wed on March 1, 2013. Buddy gained an instant son, Byron (White) and was happy to have a son. In 2013, the union produced Madison Henry Herndon, III. Buddy proved to be a selfless and loving husband and father. He was always adamant to ensure that he provided the most love and support to his boys so that they would always know they were loved. Frequently, one could find Buddy playing football with the boys, assembling puzzles, playing chess and engaging in video games with them.
Buddy left this life too soon by mortal standards and by the numerous lives that he touched. However, God makes no mistakes and needed him for the very reasons we all love him so much. In his wake, he leaves to mourn his wife, Kimberly White Herndon of Raleigh; son, Byron Cotten of Raleigh; son, Madison Henry Herndon, III of Raleigh; parents, Brenda and Thurman Herndon of Knightdale; Maternal Grandmother; Vennie Hall of Raleigh; Sister, Nickie Grant of Charlotte; Nephew, Xavier Herndon of Raleigh; Nieces, Jayla Grant of Greensboro, Sonni , Madison and Ashley Herndon of Raleigh; Nephew, Xan Been of Charlotte; Nephews, Sonny Willis and Thurman Willis Herndon of Santo Domingo of Dominican Republic.
He also leaves behind his In-Laws, Patricia and Keith White of Raleigh; Sisters in Law: Sylvia (Jose), Cynthia, Tiffany (Charles), Jennifer, Stephanie, Porsha, Jamirah and Brother in Laws: James, Daniel White. He also left behind two God children Ezekiel, Malaysia and a host of nieces, nephews and other family members.
Buddy was preceded in death by his brother, Thurman W. Herndon, Jr. (Sonny).
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