Kenneth Chad Autry

Kenneth Chad Autry, 48 of Raeford, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025.

Chad’s journey began on March 31, 1977, at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville. A journey which would lead to the deeply loved and well-respected man he will always be known as.

As a teen, Chad started out as a junior firefighter with Stoney Point Fire Department, before working his way up to Assistant Fire Chief. He continued his position as an Assistant Fire Chief briefly at Rockfish Fire Department, before eventually becoming the current Fire Captain at Puppy Creek Fire Department in Raeford. His dedication to helping others led him to obtain his paramedic certification in 2012, which he immediately put to use, working with Cumberland County EMS, Hoke County EMS, and Lumberton Rescue over the years.

Chad’s hard work continued in other outlets, serving as vice president of Autry Grading, Inc., the owner and manager of its sister company, 3rd Generation Ventures, LLC, as well as being involved with the Eden and Autry Farming Operation.

Whenever free time presented itself, Chad could be found participating in saltwater sport fishing or enjoying his favorite pastime, simply spending time with his family. Above all, his number one hobby was making his son Owen his top priority. Chad could be seen at ever single baseball game his son played starting from rec ball and into Owen's senior year. Chad truly was his son's number one fan.

Chad was preceded in death by his stepfather, Lawrence Gallagher; his sister, Kristie Autry; and his infant brother and sister, Benjamin and Elaine.

He is survived by his mother, Paula Gallagher; father, Kenneth Autry; son, Owen Autry; and daughter, Olivia Dumas; as well as his stepmother, Valerie Autry; stepsisters, Christy and Natalie; special sister and friend, Sommer Smith; and a host of other family and friends.

Chad’s legacy will live on through the number of lives he has impacted over the years. He will be remembered for his strong will, his kind heart, and his willingness to help others without a second thought. He was a loving son, devoted father, and cherished friend who will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in Chad's honor, in person or by mail, to either the Stoney Point Fire Department, 7221 Stoney Point Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306 or to the Puppy Creek Fire Department, 445 Pittman Grove Church Road, Raeford, NC 28376.