Henry J. Faison ’56

Henry J. Faison ’56, of Charlotte, N.C., passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 30, 2012. He was 78 years old. Born and raised in Charlotte, Faison graduated from Davidson and University of Virginia Darden School of Business. His business career in real estate began in the 1960s, as he pioneered shopping center development in the Southeast. Over the years, Faison built one of the most successful real estate development companies in the country. He took time along the way to help and mentor others in real estate and other fields. He served on numerous industry boards and associations. As an entrepreneur twice in his career, Faison passionately believed in the American dream and the success that comes with hard work and determination, and he loved to watch others succeed. Faison was very involved in many non-industry organizations, including serving as chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, University of Virginia Darden School of Business, Charlotte Chamber Board of Advisors, and Mercy Hospital. He also played a key role in bringing the Carolina Panthers to Charlotte while serving as chair of the two-state business committee for the NFL. Always direct in his civic engagement, Faison would ask, “Where can I help?” While his business expanded beyond the Carolinas, he was first committed to his hometown he loved, and he worked tirelessly towards his goal of seeing Charlotte grow into a first-class city. Faison enjoyed quail hunting with his two sons, grandchildren, and friends. Bird hunting was a pastime he inherited from his father and passed on to his family. He took pleasure in working with landowners to reintroduce wild quail to the Low Country. Whatever Faison did, he engaged with energy, passion, focus, and conviction. He was humble, generous, and cared deeply for people. He was compassionate, loving, and kind-hearted. This usually led to his time, talent, and treasure being devoted to community interests that few were aware of. Faison is survived by his devoted wife, Carolyn Broun Faison, 2110 Stonebridge Ln., Charlotte, NC 28211; his son, Jay (Olga), and children, Amelia, Hannah, and Henry; his son, Lane (Liz), and children, Lane and Blair; and his stepdaughters, Virginia McMullan and Carolyn Rankin. Faison was previously married for 27 years to Mollie Dewey Faison.