Eugene Joseph Carney Jr.

A Charlotte native, Gene was born on the 31st of May,1944, to the late Julia and Eugene Carney. After graduating from Duke University, he served in the Air National Guard. Returning to Charlotte, he went to work for a surveying company, which led to an illustrious career in development for the Charlotte Douglas International Airport for 32 years. As Assistant Aviation Director, he helped the airport grow from a small regional operation to one of the largest in the country.

In addition to cheering on his beloved Duke Blue Devils, Gene loved sailing and competed in many regattas. He was an active member of the Carolina Golf Club and continued to play weekly with his golf buddies and family.

Gene gave back to the community as a member of the Queen City Optimist Club and a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, where he was a dedicated volunteer for Room in the Inn. He was also a board member of the new Sullenberger Aviation Museum in Charlotte.

He was a conscientious, patient and gentle man, well loved by his family, friends, co-workers and all who spent time in his presence.

Central to Gene’s life were the bonds of family and friendship. He cherished summers “living on the porch” with his family at their beach house in Cherry Grove, SC. And many months were spent planning epic Christmas holidays where he made sure that all six children, their spouses and 14 grandchildren and great-grandchildren could gather under one roof in the beaches and mountains of North Carolina.

One of his greatest joys was being by his wife’s side as a public servant for Mecklenburg County and North Carolina for 28 years. Whatever challenges they faced in life together, Gene always had the response—“We will make it work.”

While all those who knew and loved Gene or “Papa” will miss him terribly, we will all find a way to make it work, finding joy as we remember his genuine spirit, joyful laughter and easy smile.

Along with his wife, he is survived by his six loving children: Monica Carney Holmes and husband Tobe of Charlotte, NC; Johnathan Fisher and wife Kristen of Franklin, TN; Kelly Fisher Ashman of Seattle, WA; Brandy Brinson and husband George of Wilmington, NC; Kevin Gullette and wife Barbra of Tucson, AZ; and Brian Gullette and wife Beth of Richmond, VA.

He is also survived by his adored grandchildren: Laurel, Mae, Riley, Kingsley, Sam, Daisy, Sarah Kate, Fisher, Austin, Anna, Benjamin, Harrison, Lincoln, Rebecca Jane, and great grandchildren Aria and Keanu.

Gene is also survived by his brother George Mike Carney and sister Julia Anne Carney of Charlotte as well as his former spouse Cookie Carney. He was preceded in death by his brother Bobby.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, the 21st of March, from 5:00-7:00 pm at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1623 Carmel Road. A memorial service will be held on Friday,the 22nd of March at 1:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 115 W. Seventh St.

Gifts in Gene’s memory are welcomed by the Nevins, Inc., 3523 Nevin Rd, Charlotte, NC 28269; Sullenberger Aviation Museum, 1026 Jay St, Charlotte, NC 28208; and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.