Ray Hardister

Ray Dolphus Hardister, 75, of Bennett passed away on December 29, 2020 at Randolph Hospice House.  A graveside service will be held at Pleasant Grove Christian Church, at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 2, 2021 with Pastor Don Edwards presiding. Attendees are asked to wear a mask and practice social distancing. Joyce-Brady Chapel will be open on Friday, January 1, 2021 from 12:00 pm-5:00 pm for those who wish to sign the register.

Ray was born in Wake County on February 8,1945 to R. Dolphus and Frances Little Hardister. He worked in textiles and attended Pleasant Grove Christian Church. He also operated Barb's Ice Cream, in Ramseur, for many years. Most recently, he sold watermelons in the Asheboro/Siler City area. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed golf, bird hunting and field trials. He also raised cattle and shared daily rides with his dog, Bud, on the 4-wheeler.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters, Jean Garner, Gail Maness, Sue Baker and Eula Burns and brothers, J.L. Hardister and infant brother, R.D. Hardister.

Ray is survived by his wife, Barbara Cox Hardister, of the home; sisters, Elsie Phillips, of Bear Creek and Mary Frances Snuggs, of Albemarle; numerous nieces and nephews; his special dog, Bud and a host of family and friends.

Flowers are accepted or donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Condolences may be offered online at www.joycebradychapel.com

Joyce-Brady Chapel of Bennett is honored to serve the Hardister family.