James Leroy Hedrick, 85, of Swicegood Waitman Rd., passed away on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. A beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, James leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, laughter, and an unwavering love for his family.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, at Davidson Funeral Chapel, Lexington, with Pastor Sammy Allison officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will follow in Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church Cemetery Wednesday.

He was born on November 18, 1940, in Davidson County to the late Cletus Harold and Ethel Perryman Hedrick. Leroy was part of the first graduating class of West Davidson Highschool in 1959. Raised with a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the simple things in life, he developed a lifelong love for farming, the outdoors, and working with his hands. Whether he was on his tractor tending the land, repairing a vehicle, or searching for hidden treasures at a flea market, Leroy found joy in staying busy and making something useful out of nearly anything.

Leroy was a true "fixer." He enjoyed salvage work, body repair, and could often be found walking the aisles of Lowe's looking for his next project or improvement. He had a gift for seeing potential where others did not and took great pride in a job well done. His resourcefulness was matched only by his generosity, as he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

A faithful member of Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church, Leroy cherished his faith and the fellowship of his church family. More than anything, however, he treasured time spent with those he loved. Family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and simple moments together brought him his greatest happiness. His quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and friendly nature meant he never met a stranger. He had an incredible ability to make people feel welcome, and his warm smile and easy conversation left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

In addition to his parents, Leroy was preceded in death by his first wife, Rebecca Temple Hedrick; his infant brother, Richard Hedrick; his brother, Ernest Hedrick (Arlene); and his sister, Mildred Brinkley (Howard).

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 33 years, Kathy Hatfield Hedrick of the home; his son, Richard "Rick" Hedrick; his daughter, Linda Hedrick; his sisters, Opal Jordan (Ben) and Betty Shoaf (Leroy); his grandchildren, Brandi Bivens, Amber Hedrick, and Cassie Hedrick; his great-grandchildren, Katie Stewart, Lydia "Gracie" Parks, Jasmine Heuangpraseuth, Bryson Heuangpraseuth, Henleigh Beam, and Kayleaha "KayKay" Penn; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Those who knew Leroy will remember an amazing man whose life was defined by love, humility, and generosity. He was happiest with dirt on his boots, a project to work on, and the people he loved gathered nearby. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, humor, and steadfast devotion to his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alderwood Hospice of Davidson County, 200 Hospice Way, Lexington, NC 27292.