HR 271: Kendrick, James Leroy, Jr.; condolences

House Resolution 271

By: Representatives Heffner of the 130th, Howard of the 129th, Prince of the 132nd, Myles of the 126th, and Newton of the 127th

A RESOLUTION

Honoring the life and memory of James Leroy Kendrick Jr.; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, James Leroy Kendrick Jr. was born on November 13, 1942, in Jewell, Georgia, to James Leroy Kendrick Sr. and Velma Ingram Kendrick Lee, embodying the values of hard work, integrity, and community service instilled during his upbringing; and

WHEREAS, his natural leadership, evident even in his early years on the family farm, became a defining characteristic of his life, guiding him in his many roles as a devoted husband, father, businessman, and community leader; and

WHEREAS, James Kendrick's 58 year-long marriage to his beloved wife, Mildred Nipper Kendrick, formed the bedrock of his life, providing him with unwavering support and partnership in both personal and professional endeavors, reflecting a love story that inspired all who knew them; and

WHEREAS, his faith in God was the cornerstone of his life, first nurtured at Trinity CME Church in Jewell, Georgia, and later exemplified through over 50 years of service and leadership at Williams Memorial CME Church in Augusta; and

WHEREAS, James Kendrick arrived in Augusta in 1963 with a heart committed to uplifting others; offering mentorship, inspiration, and guidance to countless individuals in his community; and nurturing future leaders as well as empowering them to achieve their dreams; and

WHEREAS, as President of Augusta Blueprint & Microfilm Inc. and founder of Creative Colors Inc., James Kendrick built businesses that were not only successful enterprises but also vehicles for community empowerment, earning him respect and admiration as "Mr. K" among employees and peers; and

WHEREAS, his entrepreneurial achievements included national recognition when Augusta Blueprint & Microfilm Inc. was named "Minority Retail Business of the Year" in 1984 and the White House and Creative Colors Inc. became a pioneering vendor for the Georgia Lottery; and

WHEREAS, James Kendrick's commitment to community service was unparalleled, as evidenced by his leadership roles on numerous boards and organizations, including Chair of the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the CSRA Business League, and member of the Governor's Task Force on Welfare Reform; and

WHEREAS, his advocacy for families, small businesses, and communities extended through his service with the Richmond County Department of Family and Children Services, Augusta Jaycees, and other civic organizations where his vision and compassion transformed lives; and

WHEREAS, James Kendrick's extraordinary legacy of leadership, service, and mentorship was not confined to his professional achievements but lived on in the countless lives he touched and the seeds of hope and opportunity he planted; and

WHEREAS, he leaves behind a loving and devoted family, including his wife, Mildred Nipper Kendrick; his children, Chandra Kendrick, Audrey Kendrick, Steven B. Kendrick (Pamela), and Kelli L. Kendrick; his sister, Stella L. Kendrick; and his granddaughters, Kiwah Kendrick, Alexandria Kendrick, and Leigha Kendrick, all of whom carry forward his spirit of love and service; and

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia recognizes that James Leroy Kendrick Jr. was a shining example of faith, leadership, and community dedication whose remarkable life and enduring legacy serve as an inspiration to all.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body honor and celebrate the life of James Leroy Kendrick Jr., commend his lifelong commitment to faith, family, and community, and express their deepest condolences to his family and friends.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the family of James Leroy Kendrick Jr.