Jerry Wayne Hargrove

Jerry Hargrove, a man renowned for his love of family and his gift for bringing people together through food, laughter, music, and more, passed away on September 22, 2025. 

Early Life
Jerry was born on May 26, 1952, in Vance County, North Carolina, to the late James Hargrove and Rebecca Hargrove. He was a proud graduate of the historic Henderson Institute, a cornerstone of African American education in Vance County, and a lifelong resident of the West End neighborhood. A patriot, Jerry honorably served his country in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War era. It was during his service, while working in the mess hall, that he discovered his passion for serving a multitude of people—a skill that would define his career and bring joy to so many.

Names that Spoke to his Heart
Jerry was a man of many names, each reflecting a different facet of the love and respect he earned throughout his life. To some, he was Pops, Brick, Lil Judge, Grove, J-Dub, Dub, or Hargrave. But to his family, he was simply Dad, Daddy, Uncle Jerry, Mr Jerr, Granddaddy, Popa, Husband, Brother, and Son.

Career and Calling
He built his life around a simple truth: food is love. Jerry was a diligent and talented restaurant manager with a genius for making people fall in love with the thing we all do—eat. He became renowned throughout the area as one of its top chefs and restaurant managers. In a remarkable testament to his work ethic and skill, he simultaneously managed both the Western Sizzlin' and The Silo restaurants, all while being a devoted and present father to his growing tribe.

Family and Survivors
Jerry's heart had room for everyone. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Rose Hargrove; his three children, Orma Hargrove (Latoria), Armand Hargrove (Linda), and Daniele Alston; and his five beloved grandchildren: Braxton Hargrove, Evan Hargrove, Eva Hargrove, Keon Fogg, and Calvin Plummer.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his two beloved aunts, James Ora Vandergirft and Irma Larence (Reggie); his siblings, Joan Foster (Joe), Judy Blue, Jason Hargrove, Jaqueline Hawkins Scotty, and Jermaine Hargrove (LeShanta); his beloved extended family, the "Alston Tribe" his Flint Hill family and friends; Evan's Tribe; the Hargrove Tribe; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

Preceded in Death
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, James and Rebecca Hargrove, and three brothers: Judge Hargrove, James "GuP" Hargrove, and Jerome "BigRed" Hargrove. He also carried a lifelong memory of Parkway Drive, a symbol of his roots and enduring spirit.

A Tribute to a Generous Life
Jerry's legacy is one of service, joy, and connection. He taught those around him that a meal shared, a laugh exchanged, a song sung, and a story told can build community and heal hearts. He will be remembered in the kitchens where he cooked, the tables where he gathered loved ones, and the laughter that echoed in his wake.

May Jerry Hargrove rest in peace, forever in our hearts, and always in the memories of those he fed, loved, and inspired.

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