Benjamin Culver Hedrick, 69, of Matthews passed away August 5th, 2023.
Born November 4th, 1953, Ben was the son of the late Bruce and Waunetta Hedrick of Asheboro. He grew up in Asheboro, graduating as a Blue Comet, Class of 1972. Blessed with a natural athletic talent, Ben played football, earning a scholarship which he used to attend Davidson College, where he continued to play football while learning just enough to earn his degree in Psychology. Ben moved to the Charlotte/Matthews area where he had been a resident for over 40 years.
In addition to being blessed with athletic talent, Ben was blessed with an uncanny sense of humor and the ability to relate to people. Using these skills, he became a successful salesman in industrial equipment, working for Pande Controls, Mechanical Supply Company and Eastern. When not working, he enjoyed beach music, shagging, motorcycle cruising and enhancing his connoisseur skills of hot dog appreciation (of which Green’s was the premier outlet of this fine cuisine). Most of all, Ben was a people person who enjoyed the time spent with family and friends. Whether bellyflopping off the lifeguard stand at the local pool or just spending time at the pool with his kids, time with others was always enjoyed and will forever be remembered.
Ben prided himself on being the cool uncle to his nieces and nephew. He was an incredible friend who cherished every relationship he had no matter how long he may have known you; some that date back to high school. He carried on lessons from his adoring parents, and created a beautiful life. He will be missed by so many. The world is a little dimmer, heaven is a little brighter, and barbecue will never taste quite the same.
Ben is survived by a daughter Hayley Hedrick; son Maxwell Hedrick; and the mother of his children, Molly Hedrick. Their love for him knows no bounds. In addition, he is survived by his brother and best friend, Bart (wife Kathy) Hedrick, who will miss him dearly; as well as numerous other relatives and friends, including nieces and a nephew who saw him as a cool uncle. Ben was preceded in death by his parents.
Ben’s family has given the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home the privilege of caring for him and for them.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home, 4715 Margaret Wallace Road, Matthews, from 10 am until 11 am on Saturday, August 12. At 11 am, services will be held in the funeral home chapel. A reception will follow with location to be provided.
Services will be livestreamed, please return to funeral home website Saturday morning for the link.
A private interment at Randolph Memorial Park will take place at a later date.