Obituary: Herman “Jr” Hardison Jr.

Herman “Jr” Hardison Jr., 77 years old, of Grifton, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family. Jr. loved his family, especially his three girls. He was a very hardworking man. He owned several businesses during his lifetime. As someone who loved to cook, Jr. loved to cook fish stews and feed his family and friends. Antiques and old cars were hobbies that kept Jr. happy. He also loved going to the river at Little Washington.

Jr. was a former chief of Southwood Volunteer Fire Dept. He was a devout first responder. After saving a baby from a burning mobile home and giving CPR to save the baby’s life, he was recognized for his heroic service.

Herman is survived by his daughters; Crystal Thigpen, Hermanda Butler and husband Jimmy and April Wilson all of Kinston; grandchildren Wyatt Thigpen, Kaylee Thigpen, Caden Thigpen, Chandler Butler and Wife Alyssa, Jackson Butler and fiancé Ricki, Jase Butler, Abigail Brown and husband Alex, Jordan Bennett and Ava Wilson. Great grandchildren Kaison Rodgers, Parker Rodgers, Kynlee Rodgers and baby Brown due in January; sisters Brenda Honneycutt; brother Tom Hardison and wife Carolyn, several nieces and nephews; Best friend/partner in Crime Skip Walston; family friends, Jen Thomas, Lucy Rappaport and his special furry friend “Spot”.

Jr. was preceded in death by his parents, Herman Hardison and Lanie Quinn Hardison, sisters, Lucille Holland and Carol Stroud and brother Bud Hardison.

Graveside Services will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at their family cemetery at 3487 British Rd., Kinston.