James Craig Kuykendall Jr.

James “Craig” Kuykendall, Jr, 52, went to join Heaven’s choir on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at Atrium Health Lincoln, surrounded by his loving family. Born December 29, 1971 to Jim & Karen Kuykendall, Craig’s early years were spent in Key West, Florida where his father, Jim was stationed in the U.S. Navy. He attended Spaugh Junior High and played golf and football (#67) before graduating in 1990 from Harding High School. He spent most of his life in Charlotte, working with his mom and dad as a tow truck driver (he was the best) and salesman (he could sell ice to Eskimos) at the family’s business, Oakdale Auto Sales, Inc., which later became Oakdale Truck & Equipment where he also upfit many commercial trucks and heavy equipment pieces. He later attended CPCC to fine tune his paint and autobody skills and spent many days and nights swinging a paint gun to add shine to something going on the lot for sale.

Craig married Donna and they had three beautiful children. He was so proud of them and taught them the same work ethic his dad taught him. He always pushed them to do their best and follow their hearts. He loved working but even more so, he loved seeing a successful deal come to fruition. He was a hardworking man and always provided for his family. In 2020, he started Gaston Used Auto Sales with his sons, Brandon, Caden & daughter Caitlyn. He taught them to drive and load Betsy, his prized rollback with vehicles and heavy equipment. His family loved to tag along with him on various runs, whether local or long haul, to pick up vehicles, equipment or deliver much needed supplies to areas affected by hurricanes or flooding. Craig had a big heart and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need.

He had a love for Camaro’s, enjoyed fishing, taking the family to the beach or the mountains, and attending dance recitals and competitions for Caitlyn. He most recently invested in opening Southern Duo Land Solutions for his family, which will continue as his legacy. After being diagnosed with heart problems, Craig was so strong and fought hard to live for his children and family. Fly high, your work on earth is done.

Craig is survived by his wife, Donna Smith Kuykendall; his children, Brandon (Tabby), Caitlyn (Nick), and Caden; his parents, James Kuykendall Sr and Karen Spivey Kuykendall; sister, Wanda (David) McGinnis; nieces, Valerie (Seth) and Summer McGinnis (Eli). He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and customers who he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by, his grandparents, Robert C. & Clara Spivey and Robert M. and Alice Kuykendall.

Psalms 23:4...."Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

A visitation for Craig will be held Friday, December 20, 2024 from 12:00 PM until the time of his funeral service at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Forest Lawn West Funeral & Cremation Service, 4601 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC. Burial in Forest Lawn West Cemetery. Condolences may be submitted at www.forestlawnwest.com.