Obituary of Lester Hayes Hardin

Mr. Lester Hayes Hardin, 79, of Deer Valley Drive, Boone, passed away February 20, 2008. Lester was born on July 8, 1928 in Robeson County to Wilbur Nash and Mary Sealy Hardin. One of ten boys, whose parents died when he was nine years old, Lester, went to live in Raleigh at The Methodist Orphanage. The orphanage played a significant role in his life as he remained close to many of his "brothers and sisters". Lester graduated from Appalachian State University where he played football. He was part of the football team under Coach E. C. Duggins. The group known today as "The Duggin's Boys" is still recognized annually during the Appalachian State football season. These teammates remained friends for life and regularly held a reunion every year which was coordinated and founded by Lester. Lester was a true participant, fan, and supporter of ASU athletics. He seldom missed a football game � home or away. Lester will be sorely missed by his family and leagues of friends he developed over his lifetime. Lester is survived by his wife Kate, his daughter Lynne Hardin and her son Matt Lee of Boone, his daughter Betsy Norvell, her husband Neal and their son Sam of Davidson. He is also survived by his brothers Romalus, Wilbur, Kenneth, and their families. A celebration of his life will be on Saturday, February 23rd at 11:00 a.m. at Boone United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made payable to Appalachian State University Foundation, Inc.,the Lester & Kate Hardin Endowment, Yosef Club Office, ASU Post Office Box 32025, Boone, NC 28608 or to High Country Health Care System Hospice, 400 Shadowline Drive, Suite 100-B, Boone, NC 28607. Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Hardin Family.