If you have some irrigation for that area, Hydrangeas are a good choice, but Azaleas would be better. I live close to you in Jefferson and we have both, and Azaleas do better in full afternoon summer sun than hydrangeas.
Are you leaning towards a flowering bush? Knockout roses and drift roses will also do well. Drift roses won't get as tall and lanky as Knockout roses can. Certain Hosta plants will also handel the sun. All of those are perennials.

Forgot to add that Sunshine ligustrum (bright yellow and lime green leaves in summer) and Medium sized loropetalum (purple) go well together and love full summer heat and sun.

 

This is all great. I don’t have any irrigation set up currently but I’m planning on putting in some drip irrigation at some point this year so I’ll just make sure I run a line to the back yard too.

You don’t think azaleas will have any issues getting 0 sunlight for 3+ months even if it’s through the winter? Honestly that’s my main concern is the complete absence of sunlight through the winter.

 

This article indicates that north facing location is fine for Azaleas, just keep them 3-4 ft from the house to allow for air circulation.

Azaleas A to Z: Know Them to Grow Them - Plant Talk

Azaleas are wonderful additions to the garden. They are easy to grow, look sensational, and have attractive foliage. Here are a few tips to help you grow strong, healthy, beautiful azaleas.

www.nybg.org

"When using azaleas for foundation plantings, locate them 3 – 4 feet from the building so that the roof will not obstruct rainfall and so that air can circulate around the plants. Avoid planting near highly reflective walls unless on the north side of the building or in the shade."

 

Aucuba, fatsia japonica and clyera immediately come to mind. With so little light they will grow very slowly but should survive. Oh, also ferns, laurels, rhododendrons. Anything that grows in forest understory can generally handle full shade.

 

@Delmarva Keith, The only issue I see with those recommendations is that after March that area gets up to 8 hrs of direct Sun (only in full shade during winter months), and in the GA summer heat, those plants would not do well, IMHO.

 

A north-facing side of a house can be challenging for plants, but don't worry, there are still plenty of options for you! For low maintenance perennials, you can consider hostas, ferns, and astilbes. These plantscan survive in the shade and add some greenery to your flower bed. For shrubs, consider boxwoods or pieris japonica. If you're looking for some color, azaleas would be a great option as well. Just be careful with the amount of afternoon direct sunlight, as too much can scorch the leaves. If you need more advice, you can check out jscustomlandscaping.com for some professional tips!