Jesse Hildreth

Obituary: Mr. Jesse Hildreth went home to Jesus on Monday, April 16, 2012, following a period of declining health. He and his wife of 64 years, the former Hazel Audrey Pressley, also of Monroe, had maintained their home in Kannapolis independently since 1952 until very recently, thanks to the efforts of their three sons. Mr. Hildreth was surrounded by his loving family and in the Lord's care on Monday. Mr. Hildreth was born January 18, 1922 in Monroe, North Carolina. One of eleven children born to sharecroppers in rural Union County. He served his community and his country during WWII as an infantryman in the US Army's 29th Infantry Division. He went ashore on Normandy Beach on D-Day plus 4 and was wounded near St. Lo France, for which he was awarded the Purple Heart. He returned to active duty until 1947, when he was discharged with honor. Mr. Hildreth returned to civilian life and moved to Kannapolis in 1952. He was employed by Cannon Mills, from which he retired with 28 years service in 1980. He and his wife raised three boys, with a firm but gentle hand, instilling values of faith, family and hard work. Known for his wit, he was as quick to smile as he was to forgive and loved by all who knew him. Despite his failing eyesight, he had a special knack for looking at life with his heart. He gave his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren the gift of his good example, in matters both physical and spiritual, patience, love and understanding. He lived the values he believed. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, April 20, 2012 at Central Baptist Church officiated by Rev. Curtis Parker and Rev. Rodney Quesenberry. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:30 PM Thursday at Whitley's Funeral Home. Mr. Hildreth is survived by his brother, Ray Hildreth of Tacoma, Washington, two sisters Mrs. Earlene McManus and Ms. Irene Hood, both of Monroe, and his loving wife, Hazel. They have three children; Blair Kee of Midland, Morris Hildreth of Kannapolis, and Dan Hildreth of The Hague, Netherlands. They have seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the many friends who offered support, as well the Veterans Administration and Hospice House of Cabarrus for their support and care. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Cabarrus County, 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.
Visitation: 7:00 - 8:30 p.m., Thursday April 19th at Whitley's Funeral Home.

Service: 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 20 2012 at Central Baptist Ch.

Interment: Carolina Memorial Park.