Frank E. Gadsden, Jr., esteemed educator, made his transition to eternity Friday, September 15, 2017 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Frank was born in Charlotte, North Carolina to educators, the late Frank E. Gadsden, Sr. and Dorothy Hunter Gadsden. His brother Donald also preceded him death.

Mr. Gadsden received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Johnson C. Smith University and his Master of Science Degree in Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His first teaching experience was in Powhatan, Virginia at Saint Emma's Military Academy and later in Geneva, New York. He began his career with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System teaching science at Cochrane Junior High School and biology at West Mecklenburg High School. From there he became Assistant Principal at Harding High School and North Mecklenburg High School, Principal at J.T. Williams Junior High School and South Mecklenburg High School. He was appointed Area Superintendent of the Garinger/Independence Area because of his strong leadership. He retired as the Executive Director of Federal and State Compliance for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Frank received multiple nominations and awards for his outstanding leadership and service as an Educator.

He was Deacon Emeritus at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church and exemplified his love for God and man by volunteering his time and resources to his church and community. He served with distinction and several civic and professional boards and organizations in the Charlotte community.

Mr. Gadsden was a lifetime and dedicated member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He was the recipient of the "Man of the Year" Achievement Award two times. He was also a member of the Phi Delta Kappa Fraternity.

Frank is survived by his sons, Frank E. Gadsden, III, Barry I. Gadsden; a beloved sister, Minnie G. Maxwell; three grandchildren; Cierra, Barry Jr, and Trey Gadsden; a loyal fiancee', Sandra Payne; extended family and friends who loved him very much.

A Celebration of his life will be Thursday, September 21, 2017 at 12:00 noon at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 3400 Beatties Ford Road with Dr. Clifford A. Jones officiating. Quiet hour will begin at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn-West Cemetery. A.E. Grier & Sons Funeral and Cremation is entrusted to serve the Gadsden family. www.Aegriersonsfcc.com for online condolences

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer on Sep. 20, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Frank Gadsden

27 Entries

Grace Williamson

September 24, 2017

Mr. Gadsden was my biology teacher at West Mecklenburg. He was able to make his class interesting and his character and integrity was visible to everyone. My condolences to his family. Class of '73

Paige Brannon--Johnston

September 24, 2017

I was shocked and saddened to hear that Mr. Gadsden had reached the final stop on his earthly journey. He will forever in my mind be the young and vivacious man I recall during his stint as principal of South Mecklenburg high school. He was an inspirational leader who propelled students to excel!! He ruled with a steel-clad sense of motivation and incentive as opposed to an iron fist. He was a man of integrity- leading others by his heart-felt actions and not only his words. He guided his students to reach equitable and fair resolutions on their own. He was a true leader in every sense of the word!! He will be missed in this city as he played such a formative role for so many. May he rest in peace!!! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

September 23, 2017

He was a man of his word and of reason. As a principal, he LISTENED to the students and then made an evaluation. We felt heard even if the decision didn't go our way. Thank you for your caring and strong leadership.

Diane Marx

September 22, 2017

Mr. Gadsden touched many lives during his walk through life. He is remembered by so many. God bless!

Ronald Moore

September 22, 2017

Mr. Gadsden was a great man, my condolences to his family, may he Rest In Peace. Much love for this man

Jim Pfeiffer

September 22, 2017

What a blessing Mr.Gadsden was to know and call a mentor, principal and friend. His passion for excellence, honor and doing one's best were lessons that I will never forget from my days at South Meck. In the business world, I called on him at Federal & State Compliance and a one hour appointment was 10 minutes Business and 50 minutes walking down memory lane. He was one of the most honorable men I've ever met and I will miss him.

September 22, 2017

Dear family may you find comfort in knowing that your loved one is resting in God's memory

Eric Eschert

September 21, 2017

Thoughts and prayers to his family. He was very good to me when I needed some help as a student at South Meck. I never forgot that..South Meck Class of 86

James Exum

September 21, 2017

One of the greatest and most influential men I have ever known. A privilege to have been a student when he came to South Mecklenburg High School as our principle. Rest in God's arms Mr. Gadsden!!

Michael Green

September 21, 2017

To: The Gadsden Family
Our Deepest Sympathy.
Mr. Gadsden's light will shine forever.
Michael & Paulette Green
Charlotte, NC

September 21, 2017

I,m sorry about the death of your love one I,m sure he will be greatly missed you have my greatest sympathy.May you find comfort in the God of all comfort

Richard Hill

September 21, 2017

Hill Family: Our sincere condolences to the Gasden Family for their loss. Our thoughts & prayers are with you during this time of need.

September 20, 2017

Frank will be greatly missed in the Glenlea Commons community! Heartfelt Sympathy,
Brenda Scales,(neighbor)

83rd Kappa Alpha Psi Conclave - Orlando, FL.

C. N. "Pap" Parrish

September 20, 2017

On September 21, 2017 you will be laid to rest, but you know what they say, God only takes the best. Everything happens for a reason. Even if we may not agree.Just promise me that you will look after all of us. And if you can, save a spot up there for me. The thought of never seeing you again brings tears to my eyes and my heart is broken over your death. All of this was such a surprise to all of us. But we should never question what God has planned. Sometimes it's not meant for us to understand. So as I sit here and mourn the loss of a beloved friend and Fraternity Brother, I have to keep telling myself that we will meet again.

Yours in the Bond Forever....

September 20, 2017

you will sure be missed. you were a awesome principal at south. you made me fell wanted and help me adjust to south when i moved to nc the end of my junior year. gina R class of 1986

Rev. Dr. C. P. Roddey

September 20, 2017

I remember Frank as a classmate at JCSU who as serious about his academics, yet found time to share some fun time. May you be comforted by the promise of eternal life.

September 20, 2017

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Donald Helms

September 20, 2017

Thank you Mr. GADSDEN for being an excellent Principal at South Mecklenburg High School during my Senior Year of 1980/81. You were very good with the Student body. The world needs more Men like you as a Guide Post to younger people.

Rose Little

September 20, 2017

Mr Gadsden was my biology teacher at West Mecklenburg in the 70's. He was a very kind and caring man. May You Rest In Peace

Gerrie Thole

September 20, 2017

I had an opportunity to work with Mr. Gadsden when he was with the 504 office and I was in the EC Dept. He was always such a passionate advocator for students with disabilities. I hope warm and happy memories of him will bring you comfort.

Patricia Cureton-Isom

September 20, 2017

Mr. Gadsden, thanks for serving as my principal at JT Williams, you will be remembered as a gentleman. Rest in peace.

June 1983 - South Meck Graduation

Jeff Lovelace

September 20, 2017

My deepest condolences. Mr. Gadsden was a caring man. I was honored to have him as my HS principal. He taught us so many lessons on life, respect, and being a human being. He will be greatly missed.

September 20, 2017

Very sorry to hear this news. Mr. Gadsden was an awesome Principal. A awesome leader and gentleman. Condolences to the family.

September 20, 2017

To the Gadsden Family, Frank was always distinguished warm man. Always a kind word and a beautiful smile. He will sorely be missed at Friendship and in the Charlotte Community.

Kathy Ward Rideaux

Juanzia Dewalt

September 20, 2017

The city has lost a great citizen, educator, family man and friend. Condolences to your famiy. You will be truly missed.

Marcia Harris

September 20, 2017

Frank was a vital part of the 0900 Cardiac Rehab class at "Presbyterian" for many years. He was always quick to share his smile and a kind word. He was very helpful to me when I was dealing with "the school system" concerning my son (who has special needs). He was a great listener and provided helpful guidance. Thank you for sharing him with us for all these years. He will be missed!

Sonya Craig Powell

September 19, 2017

My deepest condolences.
Class of 1988
South Mecklenburg High School

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