David Paul Hardee, 85, of Whiteville, NC went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ early Tuesday morning, March 25, 2025 at Greenbrier Memory Care Center of Fairmont, NC.

Paul was born May 7, 1939 in Cerro Gordo, NC to the late Earnest Paul Hardee & Pauline Ward. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Joanne Porter Hardee; brothers, Bobby and Harry Lee Hardee; sister, Mona Faye Duncan; brother-in-law, Mike Porter; as well as nephews, Michael & Kevin Hardee.

He is survived by his two children, a daughter, Tina Hardee Bailey; a son, Porter Hardee (Shannon); grandchildren, Mona and Parker Bailey,  Dawson & Gentry Hardee; brothers-in-law, Glenn Porter (Margaret) & Russell W. Duncan; sisters-in-law, JoRuth Porter, Sandra P. Allen (Mike), and Christy P. Mitchell (Scott); and 5 nieces & 6 nephews.

Paul loved his family & friends, and spending time with them fishing, golfing, bowling, snow skiing, traveling or just going out to eat with The Friday Night Supper Club (close friends that met every Friday night for 40+ years). Paul enjoyed working in his yard with his neighbor James Simmons & took pride in its appearance. Paul was a superintendent at Federal Paper Mill in Riegelwood for 36 years, retiring in '94 to begin his roll as "Papa". He served 5 years in the Army at Fort Bragg, NC.

Paul was a hearty giver, especially to the children less fortunate than he, and to his church. He helped build 2 churches in Western NC & VA; taught Sunday School & RAs; served as a Deacon for many years; very active in numerous mission committees, including Samaritins Purse, Backpack Ministry, Wednesday night supper, Operation InAsMuch, Church Grounds Beautification, building,  assistant church treasurer, helped build ramps for the handicap and others.

Memorial Service will be held at Peacock's Chapel, Sunday, April 13, 2025 at 4 p.m. The family will receive friends at 3 p.m. prior to the service.

Paul's family would like to sincerely express their thank you for all of the cards, food, visits and prayers throughout both his and Joanne's declining health. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Samaritan's Purse and Backpack Ministry at Western Prong Baptist Church, Whiteville, NC.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacockfuneralhome.net