Robert Hendrix

February 8, 1933 – September 28, 2025
Robert "Jesse" Hendrix, 92, of Fairfax Station, VA, and Tierra Verde, FL, passed away on September 28, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in Forest City, NC, Jesse lived a long, full life defined by love, service, and connection.
A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Jesse served aboard the USS Wasp during the Korean War, traveling around the world in just 18 months from Norfolk to San Diego. After his service, he returned home and met the love of his life — the most beautiful girl in the world — Rilda — in Alexandria, VA. Together they shared 68 wonderful years, building homes, businesses, and a life rich in family and friendship.
In 1962, Jesse co-founded B & H Electric with his friend and partner, John Belotti, helping shape the electrical contracting industry in Northern Virginia. He was also instrumental in the building and development of much of Fairfax County during its boom years.
Jesse served more than 25 years on the Fairfax County Electrical Licensing Board, including over a decade as chairman, and held leadership roles with the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (Virginia Chapter). He also served on the Boards of Directors for Guaranty Bank & Trust and Riggs National Bank of Virginia.
Jesse was a builder in every sense of the word — of homes, businesses, friendships, and community. But work and accolades never defined him — people did. He had a rare gift for connection, remembering birthdays, anniversaries, and special dates, often calling or emailing just to say hello. If you were lucky, he'd sing "Happy Birthday" — heartfelt and unforgettable.
Jesse considered himself "just a country boy from North Carolina," yet he met presidents, NFL and NASCAR owners, and military leaders — always humble, grounded, and guided by love. A passionate sports fan, he attended 40 Super Bowls beginning in 1969 and was a lifelong NASCAR enthusiast.
To those who knew him, Jesse embodied kindness, loyalty, and generosity. He believed that love isn't just a feeling — it's an action. He showed his love through his dependability, his time, and his genuine care for others.
He is survived by his beloved wife Rilda; daughters Ava Kennedy, Laura Hendrix, and Lisa Whitaker (Chris); four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Jesse often said, "I've been blessed to live a life few can only dream of," and those who knew him would agree. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and friend whose warmth and compassion touched everyone he met.
A celebration of life will be held in the spring. Donations in Jesse's memory may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org) or to organizations supporting veterans and first responders.
In lieu of flowers, please take a moment to remember Jesse the way he lived — by starting a conversation with someone new, offering a smile, or showing a simple act of kindness. That's how he'd want to be remembered.
His memory lingers as a sweet legacy of love, laughter, and a life well lived — one that will never be forgotten.