Jesse Alfred Hardee, Sr.

Jesse Hardee, affectionately known throughout the community as “Mr. Jesse”, passed away on June 13, 2026 at the age of 86.  For so many people, he was more than a familiar face – he was a daily blessing. Whether you saw him at the Nic’ Pic Kwik Store, riding his golf cart at the high school football game, or proudly taking part in the parade, Mr. Jesse had a way of making everyone feel like a friend.

In his younger days, Mr. Jesse was a compassionate and dedicated baseball coach who influenced the lives of many young men.  He truly loved coaching and sports, and he poured his heart into teaching not just the game, but the values of teamwork, respect, and perseverance.  Many who played under him carried his lessons far beyond the field. 

Mr. Jesse was not the retirement type.  He loved staying busy and being around people.  For the last 17 years, he worked at Nic’s Pic Kwik, where he became a beloved part of the store’s daily life.  Before that, he dedicated 48 years to Quality Oil and Gas, building a reputation for hard work, reliability, and genuine kindness.  His work was not just a job - it was another way he stayed connected to the community he loved.  Jesse was a proud Veteran who served in the North Carolina National Guard.  He often spoke about  his younger years working at the Gibson and Center Theaters. 

A true people person, Mr. Jesse showed up for his town in every way he could.  If something was happening locally, he was there – smiling, supporting, and spreading joy.  He was an avid fundraiser for countless organizations, always carrying a ticket to sell.  And if the ticket cost $10, most folks knew they’d walk away $20 lighter, because saying no to Mr. Jesse’s charm and passion for a good cause was nearly impossible. 

His faith was the foundation of his life.  Mr. Jesse loved the Lord, and he lived that love through kindness, generosity, and the way he treated others.  He had too many friends to name, and he loved every one of them.  His presence brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of togetherness wherever he went.

Jesse was the son of the late Charlie Austin Hardee and Dolly Jane Hardee born May 27, 1940 in Columbus County, NC.  He is also preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Ann Tyner Hardee; step son, Wesley Allen Barber; brothers, Talmadge Willie Hardee, Dewey Hardee, and sister, Faye Mulligan. 

Mr. Jesse is survived by his children, Mincie Hardee Maynor (Mark) of Rockingham,  Jesse “JJ” Hardee, Jr., (Teresa) of Hamlet, Keith A. Hardee (Sharon) of Laurel Hill; step daughter, Cathy Barber Kerr of Holden Beach; his adored grandchildren, Jessica Dunn Cassidy (Kevin) of Rockingham, Ben Forbis of Rockingham, Misty Crouch (Sam) of Rockingham, Bryan Lee of Aberdeen, Jesse “TJ” Hardee III of Hamlet, Katlin Chavis of Hamlet; step grandchildren, Bill Vann (Delta) and Eric Kerr (Beth) of Holden Beach, and Bryan Kerr (Robin) of Wilmington; along with a host of great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and multitude loving friends, all of who will forever cherish his big heart, his humor, and the countless ways he made life brighter for everyone around him.

The family will have a time of visitation on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at the Richard Boles Funeral Service Chapel from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m., followed by the memorial service at 4:00 p.m. where all who loved Mr. Jesse are invited to gather, share stories, and celebrate the life of a man who gave so much of himself to the community he adored. 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Scotland Memorial Hospital, the ICU staff and Dr. Sanchez, and Scotland Regional Hospice for their compassionate and attentive care during Mr. Jesse’s final days.  A special thank you is also extended to the Nichols Family and all the Nic’s Pic Kwik folks for their visits, calls, and messages - your support meant more than words can express.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be given in memory of Mr. Jesse to the Scotland Memorial Foundation, 500 Lauchwood Drive, Laurinburg, NC  28352 or to  Scotland Regional Hospice, P. O. Box 1033, Laurinburg, NC  28353.

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