Ronald C. Hare Jr.

Blessed with a joyful, laid-back and optimistic spirit, Mr. Ronald Coker Hare, Jr. was born on Saturday, September 7, 1935 in Charlotte, North Carolina. On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, he entered into eternal rest to be with the Lord.

Over a lifetime, he was a light to those around him. To friends, loved ones and colleagues, he was known simply as Ron—affectionately called “Dad,” “Paw Paw” and “Buddy” by those who cherished him most.

Growing up in Charlotte’s Cherry neighborhood, Ronald was a lifelong learner whose boundless curiosity shaped every chapter of his life. After graduating from Second Ward High School in 1953, he chose to pursue higher education, earning an Associate’s degree in mechanical engineering from Central Piedmont Community College and a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial arts from Virginia State University. During his time at Virginia State, Ronald became a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., pledging to the Nu Psi chapter and joining a brotherhood that would last a lifetime. After school, he served in the U.S. Army’s anti-aircraft artillery unit from 1959 to 1961.

Ronald soon began a career that would leave a lasting imprint on the electrical industry in the Southeast. He began his career at General Electric before joining Westinghouse Electric Corporation, where he spent decades as a leader and pioneer in his field. He was selected as one of the first African Americans from Westinghouse to lead a delegation to China to facilitate the construction of a nuclear power plant using Westinghouse Generators.

Guided by his passion for sharing knowledge and investing in others, Ronald joined Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in 1993 as a youth apprenticeship coordinator, enriching the next generation. He retired in 2000, leaving behind not only a distinguished career but a legacy of curiosity.

Outside of his career, Ronald was a devoted steward of his community. In 1979, he became a charter member of the Hidden Valley Optimist Club, part of the North Carolina West District of Optimist International, a global youth and community service organization. Over the years, he served as club president, club secretary-treasurer, and District Governor, generously giving his time and expertise to countless initiatives. Ronald is one of only three members among Optimist International’s 35,000-strong membership to achieve the honor of Master Secretary-Treasurer. His efforts resulted in his induction into the North Carolina West District Hall of Fame. In tribute to his tireless dedication, the Hidden Valley Optimist Club in 2025 established the Ronald C. Hare Jr. Scholarship Award in his honor. A living embodiment of the Optimist Creed, he truly lived by the words: “To think only the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.”

Ronald’s legacy of service continues to inspire and strengthen the Hidden Valley community. In 2015, the Ron C. Hare Nature Trail opened in north Charlotte, serving as a lasting resource for residents and local schools. The dedication, highlighted by remarks from Charlotte Mayor Daniel Clodfelter, celebrated Ronald’s lifelong commitment to giving back and improving the community he cherished.

Ronald carried his dedication to service into the house of the Lord, faithfully serving an extensive tenure on the Deacon’s Ministry at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. With reverence and a heart for others, he also served as chair of the Coleman W. Kerry Scholarship for several years, guiding and supporting young scholars on their journey through higher education and leaving a lasting spiritual and educational legacy. Ronald also served for many years with Boy Scout Troop 63 as Committee Treasurer and on the Eagle Board of Review.

In 1963, Ronald married the love of his life, Elizabeth Stradford. Over the course of their six-decade union, God blessed them with four remarkable sons, who in turn brought the joy of ten grandchildren into their lives. Ronald delighted in each of his children and grandchildren, showering them with love, guidance, and a playful spirit that made every moment together memorable. Ronald made it his mission to provide his family with more opportunities, support and encouragement than he had for himself, ensuring that each son and grandchild felt the full measure of his pride, devotion, and unwavering love.

In work, service, faith and love, Ronald’s hopeful spirit shone through, bringing warmth and laughter to everyone around him. He approached every aspect of his life—whether mentoring youth, guiding his community, or serving in the church—with a calm confidence and unwavering optimism. Friends and family often remarked that his presence was warm and calming, a reminder of the joy that comes from a life of devotion. Ronald reflected the light and hope of the Lord he so faithfully served.

Ronald leaves behind to cherish his memories: Elizabeth Hare, his wife and eternal partner; sister Annie Lois Hare; devoted sons: Graylen (Carmen) Hare, Jeffrey Hare, Ronald Hare, III and Martin (Ladreon) Hare, Sr.; grandchildren: Porchia Hare, Ashanti Hare, Anders Hare, Ronald Hare IV, Justin Hare, Jada Hare, Jason Hare, Carol Hare, Jayden Hare and Martin Hare, Jr.; special friends and caregivers: nephew Jerry Alexander, Monique Princess Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents Ronald Coker Hare Sr. & Mrs. Pearl Hare, brother Mr. Keith Hare.