Charles Keith Hynds

Charles “Keith” Hynds, age 57, of Homewood, Alabama, passed away on the morning of Sunday, August 31st. While he had valiantly battled and lived his life through countless health struggles, his loss was still quite sudden and unexpected. Keith is survived by his wife, Emily, his daughter and son-in-law, Hannah Hynds and AJ Phillips, and his son, Joshua Hynds. Additionally, he is survived by his brother and sister-in-law Greg and Alison Hynds, his parents George and Gayle Hynds, as well as an abundance of loving extended family members by blood, by marriage, and by friendship.

Keith was born on June 6th, 1968, in Atlanta, Georgia, where he spent the entirety of his childhood before leaving for college. Keith graduated from Mount Vernon Christian Academy in the spring of 1987, where he was salutatorian of his class. Keith then attended Furman University, where he met his wife, Emily, and graduated with a B.S. in Biology in 1991.

After graduating, Keith moved back to Atlanta, married Emily in 1993, and continued to work to support her through her graduate work at Emory University. In 2000, Keith and Emily moved to Homewood, Alabama, with their 2-year-old daughter, Hannah, in tow. Upon arrival in Homewood, Keith began studying at Beeson Divinity School, and Emily began work at Samford University. Shortly thereafter, Joshua arrived on the scene, and Keith’s family was complete. Keith loved being a dad more than almost anything. He always chose work that would allow him to be a fully present father, and his work ethic was unmatched.

Keith threw himself wholly into whatever he was doing. He played tennis and basketball for his school and continued to enjoy both into adulthood. He then actively coached Hannah and Joshua in their sporting activities. Keith also loved golf, and he took every opportunity to play as long as he was able. Keith always had a heart for ministry and spent many years pouring into the men’s ministry at Shades Mountain Baptist Church, where he also led and participated in numerous mission trips. Through many extended hospital stays, Keith was best known for his writings and for using that time to minister to others. As his ability to participate in many of his favorite activities lessened, he threw himself into cheerleading for his family. If you spent any time with him at all in recent years, you likely heard him bragging about his wife and kids. Keith loved watching movies with his family and friends and took great pride in planning events and outings for everyone to enjoy.

Keith was known for his relentless perseverance and optimism, despite the daily challenges he faced. He loved to care for those around him with countless acts of service. He loved well and was well loved. Through every moment, Keith remained steadfast in his faith in God, and his dedication and legacy will continue to be honored through the lives of the countless people that he touched.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who graciously cared for Keith over the past 35 years. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in his memory to Urban Purpose at urbanpurpose.networkforgood.com

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 14th at 1:30pm in Reid Chapel at Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Dr, Homewood, AL. Visitation will immediately follow the service in Reid Commons.