Colon Clay Hedrick, affectionately known as “Clay” to his friends and “Papaw” to his family, of Lenoir, North Carolina, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the age of 99, just weeks shy of his 100th birthday.

Born November 14, 1926, Clay was the son of the late Rufus “Leonard” and Effie Barlow Hedrick.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Clay served his country during the closing days of World War II. Among his favorite memories of military service was the opportunity to drive famed journalist and television personality Andy Rooney, a story he loved sharing with family and friends throughout his life.

Above all, Clay was a man of deep and unwavering faith. A quiet man who led by example, he demonstrated his love for the Lord through the way he lived, worked, and cared for his family. He was a devoted member of Kings Creek Baptist Church, where he and his beloved wife, Rema, faithfully served for many years, including quietly caring for and cleaning the church. Clay never sought recognition or praise, choosing instead to let his actions speak for themselves. His humble spirit, servant’s heart, and steadfast faith leave a lasting legacy for the generations who follow him.

Clay was a hardworking man who loved working with his hands. He spent many years in the furniture industry before retiring from Singer Furniture, but retirement never meant sitting still. He was happiest when he had something to work on. Whether tending to his garden, tinkering with his lawn mower in the tool shed, building and painting birdhouses, or cutting wood for the winter, Clay always found a reason to stay busy.

Though a quiet man by nature, Clay never hesitated to show his love for his family. He greeted those he loved with a big smile and a warm hug, making everyone feel welcomed and cherished. His gentle spirit, affectionate nature, and steadfast presence were a source of comfort and joy to his family. To his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he was a constant example of unconditional love, kindness, and faith.

Clay shared 79 remarkable years of marriage with his beloved wife, Rema Maltba Hedrick, who passed away on October 14, 2026, just nine days before him. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and devotion to one another. Their enduring love and commitment were an inspiration to those who knew them, and their legacy will live on through the generations of family they leave behind.

In addition to his parents, Rufus "Leonard" and Effie Barlow Hedrick, Clay was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 79 years, Rema Maltba Hedrick; his son, Steve Hedrick; his grandson, Andy Hedrick; and his brothers, Ernest Hedrick, Albert Hedrick, Melvin Hedrick, T.D. Hedrick, and Gene Hedrick; and sisters, Christine Walker and Betty Duffey.

Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Caroll Hedrick and wife Doris; daughters, Regina Brookshire and husband Doug, and Allison Hoyle and husband Mark; and daughter-in-law, Dorcas Hedrick.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jeff Hedrick and wife Crystal, Robert Hedrick and wife Kimberly, Jamie White and husband Phillip, John Brookshire and wife Andrea, and Matthew Hoyle and wife Mary; and ten great-grandchildren, Joshua, Timothy, Garrett, Samuel, Corryn, Josephine, Holden, Laurel, Savannah, and Lacey. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

While his family will deeply miss his warm hugs, welcoming smile, and gentle presence, they find comfort in knowing that his earthly journey is complete and that he has been reunited with his beloved Rema in the presence of their Lord and Savior. His was a life well lived, a faith faithfully demonstrated, and a love that will never be forgotten.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, October 25, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at Kings Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Randy Goode and Rev. Bob Lowman officiating. Interment will immediately follow in the church cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the U.S. Army.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 P.M. at the church.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jeff Hedrick, Robert Hedrick, John Brookshire, Matthew Hoyle, Phillip White, and James Grindstaff.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Kings Creek Baptist Church, 4698 Kings Creek Church Rd, Lenoir, NC 28645.

Online condolences may be left at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Hedrick family.