Kerry Lee “Sam” Hart of Jonesburg, 75, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at DePaul Hospital, with his family members at his bedside.
He was born November 12, 1948, in Washington (Franklin County), the son of Harry T. and Dolly Hart, nee Frauenhoffer. Kerry Lee was the devoted husband of Donna Lea Hart, nee Whaley, having been united in marriage on October 4,1969, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Jonesburg.
Kerry was the proprietor of Hart’s Sports Shop in Warrenton which he owned and operated with Donna and son, Corey Lee Hart, for 31 years. A lifelong resident of Jonesburg, Kerry held many positions within the community during his life including mayor, city clerk and water meter reader. He also served as a member of the Elks Club, Optimist Club and Montgomery County Fair Board. When his children were younger, Kerry also worked as a referee for middle school and high school basketball, coached Khoury League games and always fully supported his children’s sports. He was a lifelong avid sports fan, rooting for the St. Louis Cardinals and the North Carolina Tar Heels, Kerry also enjoyed playing sports and competing in powerlifting.
In retirement, Kerry’s hobby became gardening. He spent countless hours perfecting the growing and harvesting of the tomato, while listening to sports radio, in the watchful eyes of his beloved cats.
Kerry is survived by Donna Lea Hart; his children, Corey Lee (Kayla) Hart of Warrenton and Kristin Lea Hart (John Mitzak) of Durham, N.C.; sisters Susan Hart (Angie Roberds) of Columbia and Dianna “Dee Dee” Shelton (Jay Shelton) of Columbia; many nieces and nephews, including Ross, Kate, Ruthie Jo, Lucas, Ben and Penny; and no less than 100 vegetable plants and seedlings ready for the 2024 growing season.
The family of Kerry Hart was served by the Pitman Funeral Home of Jonesburg.
