Larry Calvin Hardee

Larry Calvin Hardee met Jesus on January 17, 2025, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He is now healthy and whole, mentally, and physically. Larry was born on the family farm, 5 months early, weighing less than 3lbs in Clayton, NC on February 14, 1938. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Dixon, and Irene Hilliard Hardee; sister, Barbara Ann Hardee; his loving wife of 48 years, Margaret Prevatte Hardee and his only son, Larry Eugene Hardee. He was also preceded by his beloved companions, Italian Greyhounds, Oliver, and Bella. He is survived by his daughter, Tamara Hardee Cartwright (Tommy Cartwright), sisters, Carol Hardee Stout, and Patricia Hardee Smith. He is also survived by his grandsons, Larry Robert Hardee and his family and Dustin Hardee and his family and a host of nephews and nieces. 
Larry was known for his humor and ability to make anyone laugh. He lived life to the fullest, no matter what he was doing or where he was. Anyone that he met was greeted with a handshake and “You give me 5 and I will give ya 6 back” as Larry had a double thumb. He was a loving daddy and was affectionately called “Three Thumb Larry” by Tamara. He had strength, determination, and a vision that was completed in his lifetime. He was a people person and never met a stranger. 
Larry started his career in the auto industry when he owned and operated a Gulf Oil full-service station in downtown Fayetteville, which led to his eventual ownership of Auto Parts -N- Service until retirement in the early 2000s. He worked hard to be a provider and took pride in everything he did. 
As in all aspects of his life, Larry exhibited great perseverance and was diligent in his daily 3-mile walks while keeping an eye around him, as he served as the neighborhood watch captain. He faithfully attended and enjoyed his friendships at Freedom Baptist Church. 
He enjoyed his retirement by participating in senior recreation events like dancing and live music. He enjoyed cruising and short trips, which were highlighted with a cruise to Alaska. He loved his black 1978 Mustang and for many years entered it into car shows in the area. 
Larry grew up in downtown Fayetteville and was reunited with the fellas he grew up with. The “‘The Winslow Street Gang”’ met up weekly for a meal. He was so immensely proud to be a Fayetteville Senior High class of 56 Bulldog and looked forward to the times “The Old Dogs Club” got together. Larry was a member of the Cumberland County Wildlife Club where he delighted in serving the meal at each meeting. Larry was filled with joy to be involved in his heritage and was a member of Fayetteville Arsenal Camp No. 168 Sons of the Confederate Veterans. He was a part of reenactments, got dressed up in period dress for Jackson Lee Ball, as well as being a part of the annual event of placing confederate flags on the veteran graves. Larry was a lifetime member of the NRA, as well as a lifetime member, over 50 years, Moose Fraternity Lodge 3000. 
The family will receive friends on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Rogers and Breece Funeral Home from 11:45 to 1:45 pm. A funeral service will be held at 2 pm in the chapel. Burial to follow the service at Fayetteville Memorial Cemetery. 
Larry was a practical fella who lived a life of frugality. And with that thought, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Manna Dream Center, in his memory. 336 Ray Ave or online at https://subsplash.com/u/mannachurchdreamcenter/give?frequency=once&next_process_date=01/20/2025&fund_id=ef7cbfaf-38b4-44a3-99d0-9b0b2d46a6bb. Choose The Dream Center from the drop-down box.
 

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