Hubert "Hugh" Cordett Kennedy Jr.

Hugh had every right to cry, be mad or even fall into depression after his diagnosis. But instead, he loved and lived every single moment he was given. Neither hard times nor cancer would rob him of who he was. Always graceful, until God called him Home.

Hugh was born in High Point, NC on February 12, 1962 to Hubert C. Kennedy Sr and Sylvia (Byerly) Kennedy.

Graduated Ledford High school in 1980; He received an associate’s degree at Davidson community college and went on to NC State University, where he received his BS in Electrical Engineering. Hugh is a lifelong Wolfpack fan. Hugh earned his PE in Electrical Engineering, and became a principal / owner at Haas & Kennedy Engineers in Charlotte.

Hugh met his high school sweetheart, and love of his life, Rhonda Beeson at Ledford High school. They married in 1987 and have been together for 44 years. Together, they built an amazing life full of friends and loved ones, in Charlotte.

Hugh will be profoundly missed by his mother, Sylvia Kennedy; Brother Christopher Kennedy; Karen and Charlie Fox; Joy and David Bledsoe; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Hugh has been preceded in death by his father in 1989; Papaw Byerly, 1990; Mamaw Byerly in 2012; Uncle Dale, 1986; Aunt Becky, 1990.

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Hugh was beloved by everyone, best friends with all walks of life. He was a very determined person who gave his all to any task. No matter the challenges and request, to make sure he surpassed all expectations. Whether his own or those of other’s.

He was a facilitator, voice of reason, a giver, all around good guy with a heart of gold.

He was a man driven by his purpose and faith in God. He would always challenge those around him to be the best version of themselves. He had a heart of gold.

He will be remembered for giving everyone a nickname that captured that person perfectly. And he was a minimalist - Hugh couldn’t understand why anyone would need to have more than 4 rolls of toilet paper in the house. And then Covid hit.

Hugh went to work for Steve Haas in 1984. They became friends and business partners, with a high standard of work ethic and determination. Hugh was a fair boss and a loyal friend to everyone who worked there.

Hugh’s recent passion was The Road Church in Mint Hill, in which he was a founding member. He worked tirelessly, for months, with a talented group of people, to ensure The Road Church came to fruition.

And he was an amazing guitarist. When he first started lessons, the guitar teacher told his mother she was wasting her money on lessons because he wasn’t interested in playing. Until he was in high school and realized “rockers get chicks”. His love of music continued, and he played in multiple bands across the charlotte region. On Sundays, Hugh was the first one on stage for Praise Band at church. He loved nothing more than showing you the Lord through his music.

Hugh loved to ride his Harley. Over the years he had a few bikes that were his pride & joy. He and His motorcycle “gang” took numerous trips over the years, including Sturgis, Daytona and Key West. Of all the rides Hugh has taken, his absolute favorite was the day he took his Mamaw Byerly, at the youthful age of 97, on her first motorcycle ride. We still aren’t sure who was wearing the biggest grin.

Mamaw Byerly was his favorite person. He would go up to see her every weekend, spending Friday Night & Saturday to help care for her after she became ill. They would talk, reminisce and watch Gunsmoke.

Hugh is an avid golfer and showed up every Friday at Pine Lake Country Club to play with his Friday group.

Hugh loved going to North Myrtle Beach. He loved watching the sun rise, walking on the beach, hearing the seagulls and often ended the day watching the sun set.

He also loved going to yoga each week, and loved his fellow Yogi’s. Namaste

Hugh truly was one of a kind. He will never be forgotten and forever remembered, missed by all who are fortunate to know him. His legacy will live on forever.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for Dr. Bhutani, Nurse Amy, The Levine Cancer Center, and Via Hospice.

And to all of you who have offered sympathy, kindness, prayers and comforting words. May God continue to bless you.

Celebration of life will take place Sunday October 6th, 2024 at The Road Church’s new location at 13700 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill, NC (formerly St Luke Catholic Church). The service will be at 3pm with visitation to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a memorial in Hugh’s name be made to The Road Church Capital Fund, PO Box 690683, Mint Hill NC 28227.