Ernest Ansel "E.A." Hartley

With heavy hearts, yet with the assurance of his eternal home with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we announce the passing of Ernest Ansel “E.A.” Hartley, age 95. A devoted Christian, loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, he lived a life marked by faith, family, service, and love for others. Born and raised in Watauga County, he was the son of the late Ernest L. Hartley and Dorsie Matney Hartley. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife of 38 years, Mary Sue Greer Hartley. He was also preceded in death by sisters, Evelyn H. Grigg and Carolyn H. Bulla, and brother, Keith Hartley.

After graduating with a GED, E. A. proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1949-1953, including during the Korean War, as a Radio Technician. During his years of service, he received the National Defense Service Medal. Following his honorable discharge, he and wife, Sue, briefly lived in Shelby, where he attended Howard’s Business College and drove for Fredicksons Trucking. In1958, they returned to Boone, where E.A. drove for Wilcox Drug Company and J.C. Goodnight. He also farmed, raising cabbage and potatoes, and worked as an independent truck driver.

In 1963, E.A. branched out into growing Christmas trees, beginning what would become a 40+ year tradition. He operated Christmas tree lots in both Boone and Shelby, sharing his love of the Christmas tree business with countless customers, family, and friends throughout the years.

While living in Boone, E.A. was a faithful member of Three Forks Baptist Church. In 1997, he moved back to Shelby, where he married his second wife, Betty Brewer Hardin. They became members of Ross Grove Baptist Church, later joining Zion Baptist Church in Shelby. In 2024, they moved to Forest City to be closer to her sons.

E. A. dearly loved his girls, grandchildren and his great grandchildren. He enjoyed his antique and classic cars and traveling with the High Country Travelers for many years. Along with the cars, he enjoyed collecting and selling antiques, working the flea markets, golf outings with family and friends, and meeting people along the way ~ But his favorite pastime was just simply Staying on the Go and enjoying life to the fullest.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Giovonnia H. Hennessee (Phil) and Gail H. Hennessee (Tom). Grandsons ~ Trey Hennessee (Laura), Clay Hennessee, Alex Hennessee (fiancé Haley), and Miquel Hennessee. Granddaughter, Missy H. Keller (Bradley). Great Grandchildren, Layla Rain Hennessee and Maddux Paul Keller. Also to cherish his memory is his second wife of 30 years, Betty Hardin. Her sons, Jeff Hardin (Rhonda) and Stan

Hardin (Susan). Grandchildren ~ Lauren H. Hutchins (W.D.), Brent Hardin (Ashley), Corbin Hardin, and Cragan H. Newton (Shane). Great Grandchildren ~ Julia Huitchins, Will Hutchins, Olivia Hardin, Barrett Hardin, and Cooper Newton. E.A. is also survived by sisters, Joyce Hartley Hampton Powers (Lynn) and Kay Hartley Fletcher (Bob). Very special cousin, b-n-l and friend, Dwight Critcher, and nephew, Terry Hartley (Donna). He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and dear friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, friendship and generosity.

The family will be at Hampton’s Funeral Home in Boone Tuesday, September 15th, to receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The funeral will be held at 1:30 p.m. at Three Forks Baptist Church, with entombment following at Mt. Lawn Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent to: Three Forks Baptist Church 1922 US Highway 421 South, Boone, North Carolina 28607 or Amorem of Valdese 1721 Enon Road Valdese, NC 28690

Online condolences may be sent to the Hartley family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com.

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.