Concord, NC, September 25, 2025
News Summary
Kenneth Lee Christenbury and Grace ‘Suggie’ Christenbury, a cherished couple from Concord, NC, passed away peacefully at their home surrounded by family. They celebrated 73 years of marriage, contributing to their community and church. Their legacy of devotion, families, and community service will be remembered fondly. A memorial service is planned to honor their lives and impact.
Concord, NC – Kenneth Lee Christenbury, 95, and Grace “Suggie” Christenbury, 92, peacefully passed away at their home with family by their side, marking the end of a significant chapter for a beloved local couple. Kenneth passed away at sunrise on September 20, 2025, just six days after Suggie, who died at sunset on September 14, 2025.
Kenneth, born on August 3, 1930, in Cabarrus County, NC, and Suggie, born on October 31, 1932, in Mecklenburg County, NC, lived rich lives filled with family, faith, and community service. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Wood and Sue Christenbury, and siblings Paul B. Christenbury, Jenna Sue Taylor, and Jo Ann Austin Jones. Similarly, Suggie was preceded in death by her parents, Luren and Grace Wiggins, and siblings Kathleen Bustle, Bill Wiggins, Ruth Beard, Calvin Wiggins, Ruby Little, and Hazel Barnette, making her the last of her family.
The couple celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary on April 20, 2025. They were active members of Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church, with Kenneth participating in the annual Mallard Creek BBQ, which is a highlight for the community. Suggie’s dedication to the church was recognized when she received the Honorary Life Membership for Presbyterian Women in 2016, reflecting her contributions and commitment.
Suggie was well-known for her warm hospitality, often inviting visitors to join church activities and promoting events like the annual BBQ. Beyond her church service, she contributed over 25 years working in the kitchen crew for the Youth Club, where her Thanksgiving dressing and coconut cake earned her praise. Suggie graduated with the last class of Huntersville High School in 1950.
Kenneth had a background in engineering, retiring from the City of Charlotte Water Department as a Plant Engineer in January 1993. After his retirement, he owned Christenbury Repair Service and managed Christenbury Farms, showcasing his passion for farming and the values of hard work, which he instilled in his family. Together, the couple maintained “The Garden at Christenbury Farm,” operating a roadside stand that became a local favorite.
An avid photographer, Kenneth created annual calendars featuring his work, further documenting the life they shared together. The couple is survived by their three children: daughters Janet C. Mabry of Albemarle, Ann C. Carroll of Concord, and son Paul L. Christenbury of Mooresville, along with three grandchildren: Justin Carroll, Summer C. Klink, and Dylan Christenbury. Kenneth is also survived by siblings Silas Ted Christenbury, Gerald Davis Christenbury, Edward Maxwell Christenbury, and Sandra Kay Thomas, alongside several brothers-in-law and numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
A memorial service for Kenneth and Suggie will take place on September 25, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:45 am at Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 pm. The couple will be laid to rest in the church cemetery after the services. The family has expressed deep gratitude towards caregiver Kate Sigmon and their neighbors for the support during their final days. Memorial donations can be made to Atrium Health Hospice & Palliative Care Cabarrus to honor their memory.
FAQ
When did Kenneth and Suggie Christenbury pass away?
Kenneth Lee Christenbury passed away at sunrise on September 20, 2025, and Grace “Suggie” Christenbury passed away at sunset on September 14, 2025.
What were Kenneth and Suggie’s contributions to their church?
Kenneth was involved in the annual Mallard Creek BBQ, while Suggie received the Honorary Life Membership for Presbyterian Women in 2016 for her contributions to the church.
How long were Kenneth and Suggie married?
Kenneth and Suggie were married on April 20, 1952, celebrating their 73rd anniversary in 2025.
What are some of Suggie’s well-known dishes?
Suggie was famous for her Thanksgiving dressing and delicious coconut cake.
When is the memorial service for Kenneth and Suggie Christenbury?
A memorial service will be held on September 25, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:45 am at Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church, with the funeral following at 12:00 pm.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Kenneth Christenbury’s Birthdate | August 3, 1930 |
| Suggie Christenbury’s Birthdate | October 31, 1932 |
| Date of Kenneth’s Death | September 20, 2025 |
| Date of Suggie’s Death | September 14, 2025 |
| Marriage Date | April 20, 1952 |
| Memorial Service Date | September 25, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Hartsell Funeral Homes: Suggie and Kenneth Christenbury
- Dignity Memorial: John Christenbury Obituary
- Hartsell Funeral Homes: Paul Christenbury
- Charlotte Observer: Local News Article
- Legacy: Olin Christenbury Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Kenneth Lee Christenbury
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Kenneth and Suggie Christenbury
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