Bessemer City, North Carolina, is reeling from the loss of Justin Frady, who died by suicide on a bridge. He was widely known in the community as a leader, mentor, and friend whose impact stretched far beyond his professional and personal life.
Frady, 38, was the General Manager at Comfort Keepers in Belmont, North Carolina, where colleagues praised his dedication and uplifting spirit. He also served as Director of Student Ministry at Life Church in Cramerton and was deeply involved in youth football as a coach with the Belmont Red Raiders. His passion for mentoring young athletes and guiding students in faith left a lasting mark on countless families.
A graduate of Brevard College, where he earned a degree in Business and played varsity baseball, Frady went on to build a career in hospitality and healthcare leadership. Known for his strong financial acumen and people-first approach, he was admired both professionally and personally for the energy and kindness he carried into every room.
Tributes poured in from across the community. Fellow coach Jason Johnson recalled how Frady inspired young players, saying he would always remember seeing him coaching with “a baby on his back on the field.” Friend Dakota Hood described him as “a light in a world full of darkness,” always speaking encouragement into the lives of those around him.
The Belmont Red Raiders Youth Football and Cheer program shared a moving statement, calling Frady “the light in every room he entered” and highlighting his bold faith, love for others, and commitment to kindness. His church community, Life Church Cramerton, also expressed deep sorrow, asking for prayers and support for his grieving family.
Comfort Keepers, where Frady worked as General Manager, described him as a dedicated leader whose positive attitude touched the entire team.
Friends like Leslie Costner remembered him as a source of joy and laughter since childhood, calling him “one of my best friends growing up through adulthood.”
Frady’s passing leaves behind his wife, children, extended family, and a community united in grief. His legacy will live on through the young athletes he coached, the colleagues he inspired, and the many lives he uplifted with faith and kindness.