Hardy Jay Askew

   Hardy Jay Askew, “Buddy” 72, of 70 Hardy Askew Lane, Gates, NC, passed away peacefully at his home Monday, February 12, 2024.

   Mr. Askew, beloved son, husband, father, grandfather and friend was born in Portsmouth, VA on August 21, 1951. He was the son of the late Hardy Jones Askew and Dorothy Marie Lawrence Askew. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Jessie Diane Finley Askew, and by his nephew, Brian Clapp.

   A graduate of Gates County High School, he farmed with his father and was a student school bus driver.  “Buddy” later attended and graduated from N.C. State University and pursued his dream of what would end up being a lifelong career in farming. An avid sports fan, he loved basketball, played regularly with his close friends and in early years enjoyed times spent with friends playing for the Bombers in the recreational league.

   Surviving is his daughter, Bridgett Coburn of Gates; his son, Johnnie L. “J.C.” Coburn, Jr. (Debbie) of Eure; a sister, Patricia Askew Joines & (T.J.) of Mechanicsville, VA;  cousin, Jeannie McGregor (Bruce) of Southlake, TX; four grandchildren, Eric Coburn (Kelsey),  Samantha Coburn, Trevor Coburn, and Leland Coburn; two nephews, Lee Joines (Melissa) and Jay Joines (Laura); and many great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and extended family members and friends.

   A memorial service will be held Saturday at 3:00 p.m. in Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville. Services will be conducted by the Rev. Greg Jernigan. Friends may visit with the family in the funeral home immediately following the service.

   A private burial will follow at the Askew Family Cemetery near the home at a future date.

   In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Hardy Askew, contributions may be made to our local school programs of your choice, such as meals, sports and FFA.

   Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.