Charles "Buster" Franklin" Kendrick, 83, died Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at his home.

Born in Mecklenburg County, he was the son of the late John Burl and Reola Wall Kendrick. Buster graduated in 1957 from Number Three High School. He was a starting forward on the championship basketball team that same year, then attended Gardner Webb to continue his education. Buster had many jobs with local businesses as he and Priscilla began their family.
He was a 32nd degree Mason, Past Master of the Cleveland Lodge 202 and Shriner, a member of the Musicians Union of the Grand ole Opry and a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.

Buster was an amazing guitarist and taught many aspiring musicians his unique style. Eventually, he moved to Nashville to fulfill his music goals. He began playing acoustic on the grand ole Opry for Dottie West where he became a music icon for so many. He drove tour buses for Dottie, Shelly West, Don Williams and others while still playing the music he loved. After returning to Shelby, he continued many miles on the road behind the wheel for Phil Toney tours, delivering them safely to their tour destinations. Although he has some incredible stories, his most treasured involves his family. He was God Fearing and loved his Lord.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Priscilla Panther Kendrick, of the home; daughters, Karla Johnson and husband Andy of Earl and Angie Clark and husband Chris of Boiling Springs; son, Phil Kendrick and wife Carol of Shelby; grandchildren, Haley Treiber and husband Ross, Kendra Johnson, Kacey Phillips and husband C.J., Kyle Kendrick, Jade Clark, Drew Johnson, and Tanner Clark; and great-grandchild, Aniston Treiber.

Funeral services will be held 2:00pm, Sunday, October 2, 2022 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, with the Rev. Andrew Corley and Dr. Cal Robertson officiating. The family will receive friends following the service, as attendees leave. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or The Shriners Children's Hospital.

FUNERAL HOME: Arrangements are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center.

ONLINE CONDOLENCES: www.claybarnette.com