Mr. Yusef D'Rone Fite, 64, of Kannapolis, NC, departed this life on Monday, May 5, 2025 at his Residence.

In Loving Memory of Yusef D'Rone Fite
August 28, 1960 – May 5, 2025

With profound love and deep sorrow, we remember and celebrate the life of Yusef D'Rone Fite. A man of brilliance, resilience and heart.  Born on August 28, 1960, to Mary L. Fite and Robert L. Fite, in Washington, D.C.  Yusef was a beacon of strength and unwavering purpose. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, father & brother Solomon (Mae) Freeman.

Yusef was a naturally gifted intellectual. He attended grade school and high school in Utica, NY. Yusef was raised to be well-versed in his bible, with an emphasis on hard work and higher education. These sentiments remained with him throughout his life. Upon graduating from Utica Free Academy (UFA),  he obtained a Bachelor's of Science in Mathematics from Johnson C. Smith University (1982). A befitting area of study for Yusef, who had an affinity for numbers and the skill and ability to think quickly and critically.

Yusef's professional career began when he was recruited as a computer programmer by Prudential Insurance Co. (Roseland, NJ), where he met and married Wanda Bradberry. During their marriage they raised three exceptional children: Gordan, LaChandra, and SaKarra; and maintained a lifelong friendship.

Yusef and Wanda relocated their family to Charlotte, NC where Yusef began work for AT&T Communications. He went on to earn their Excellence Award for Top Sales. Yusef's independent and driven personality led him to more entrepreneurial pursuits. Upon obtaining a trades certification in carpentry, Yusef started his business, Fite's Installation & Repair (2006). He took pride in mentoring young tradesmen and taking them along to complete residential carpentry work in Charlotte and the surrounding area.  Yusef shared his knowledge and experience with his son, Gordan, who became co-owner in their joint venture, Fite's Renovations.

An avid chess player, Yusef was known to not only teach rules and strategy of the game, but also the life lessons: patience, foresight, and discipline. Three pillars he exemplified regularly in his everyday life.

One of Yusef's most remarkable chapters was his journey to recovery. He proudly celebrated 19 years of sobriety, becoming a voice of hope and a mentor to many. With humility and honesty, he regularly shared his testimony at local and regional recovery conferences, always offering light to others still finding their way.

Those blessed to have intimately known Yusef, felt and understood the impact held within the quiet consistency of his presence. He was a leader, a true friend, and a devout family man. Yusef took pride in the legacy he cultivated among his children, nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Affectionately known to them as Pops, Titan, and Grandpa- he was there for every milestone, near or far.

He is survived by his beloved children: Gordan Fite, La Chandra Fite (Kevin Mitchell), and SaKarra Fite. His grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable pride and joy: Kania Shepard-Fite, Cashmeir Chambers, Jasahd Lattimore, Nadiya Chambers, Cameron Mitchell, Khyon Bey, Zionna Fite, and Chaz Mitchell. Yusef was also joyfully awaiting the birth of his newest granddaughter— who he lovingly called "Precious".

Yusef is also remembered by his devoted siblings: John B. Charles (Nicole) of Kings Mountain, Brian G. Fite (Barbara) of Charlotte, Jason Hahn (Stephanie), and Mel Fite (Dee) of Utica, NY; as well as, his paternal sister, Emelyn Kronman-Heard of Syracuse, NY; his beloved goddaughter Emani Denise Williams and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends—each of whom carries a piece of his heart.

Those who knew Yusef remember a man of deep intellect, gentle strength, contagious laughter, and unwavering faith.

Yusef D'Rone Fite was a great man whose legacy will live on. While we grieve his absence, we rejoice in the gift of his life, and the eternal love he has  imprinted on our soul.