October 27, 1931 – August 4, 2025

It is with profound sadness and enduring respect that HWENA, on behalf of current President Natalie Beard, all members, and our community partners, honors and pays tribute to our beloved former President, Aaron McKeithan, Jr., who passed away on August 4, 2025 at the age of 93 Dignity MemorialLegacy.

A Life of Purpose and Service

Born in Clinton, North Carolina, on October 27, 1931, Mr. McKeithan was the cherished son of Aaron McKeithan, Sr., and Almir (Jacobs) McKeithan. He was raised in Goldsboro and embarked on a life defined by devotion to community and care.

After graduating from Dillard High School in Goldsboro, he pursued further education at NC A&T State University in Greensboro and later at Mecklenburg College in Charlotte. His commitment to lifelong learning led him to earn multiple certifications in emergency medicine and—equally important—community service and volunteerism.

A proud Korean War veteran, Mr. McKeithan served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954, with his unit attached to the Air Force.

From Healing Hands to Community Heart

Upon completing his military service, Aaron McKeithan began his professional career as a Correctional Officer at Sing Sing Prison in New York (1954–1958) and served as a Mental Health Technician at Cherry Hospital in Goldsboro (1959–1961). In 1961, he moved to Charlotte and began a distinguished 36-year tenure at Presbyterian Hospital—now Novant Health—from which he retired in 1997.

But his greatest contributions extended far beyond his day job. His true passion lay in serving the community—advocating for the residents of the Historical West End and beyond. His leadership and vision helped shape the neighborhood’s present-day identity and continued strength.

A Trailblazer for Our Community

During his remarkable 16-year leadership as HWENA’s past  president, Mr. McKeithan was a tireless advocate for equal opportunity, safety, and community enrichment. Under his guidance, HWENA advanced effective neighborhood representation and sustained positive change that continues to define our area today.

Beyond HWENA, his civic engagement was truly extraordinary. He served on numerous boards and commissions, exemplifying his belief in the importance of civic participation:

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport Commission

• Boy Scouts of America

• Presbyterian Retirees (Chair)

• Mentor with Right Moves for Youth

• Mint Museum Docent Executive Committee and Board of Trustees

• Precinct 16 (Chair)

• Advisory Board for Reach 2010 (Chair)

• Charlotte Area Fund Board of Directors (Chair)

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Council on Aging (Chair)

• Friends of the Beatties Ford Public Library

• Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County (Board Member)

• Friendship Community Development Corporation (Board Member)

• Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation’s Northwest Park Advisory Council (Member)

Aaron’s life's work was a living testament to his belief that strong communities grow from selfless, dedicated leadership—and that everyone deserves a chance to belong and thrive.

Relaying Our Sympathy

To Aaron’s loving wife, and to all his family and friends, we extend our deepest sympathies. On behalf of Natalie Beard, our HWENA board, and every neighbor and community partner, please know that your loss is shared by a community forever enriched by his life.

Funeral and Celebration of Life Details

We invite all members, partners, and neighbors to join us in honoring his extraordinary life:

• Visitation: August 14, 2025, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

• Celebration of Life: August 14, 2025, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

• Location: Chapel of McEwen Funeral & Cremation Service, Forest Lawn West, 4601 Freedom (not “Feedome”) Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208 Legacy

• Entombment: Forest Lawn West Cemetery

Let us come together, united by gratitude and remembrance, to celebrate a man whose legacy will continue to guide and uplift the Historical West End for generations to come.

With fond remembrance and unwavering gratitude, we say: Thank you, President McKeithan. Your service, your vision, and your heart have shaped our community. We commit to honoring your legacy in all that HWENA continues to do.