Obituaries

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of John W. Hairston, who passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and steadfast dedication.

Born on October 10, 1925, to the late Berkley Hairston and Georgia Starling Hairston. John lived through a century of change, growth, and history. He was a man of quiet strength, integrity, and wisdom-- someone who believed in hard work, honesty, and doing right by others. His life was a testament to perseverance and grace.

For many years, John devoted himself to his work, including his time at J.C. Penney, where he was known as dependable, kind, and proud of the service he provided. Work was more than a job to him-- it was a reflection of his values and commitment for his family.

Above all, John cherished his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose guidance, stories, and gentle humor will be treasured forever. His presence brought comfort, and his words carried wisdom shaped by a lifetime of experience.

Reaching 100 years was not just a milestone, it was a blessing. John witnessed generations grow, traditions continue, and love multiply. He leaves behind memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his loving wife, Anne Clark Hairston.

He is survived by two sons, Anthony T. Hairston of Greensboro, NC and Bishop Darrell Hairston and his wife Penny Hairston of Charlotte, NC; two daughters, Pamela Miller and her husband Bishop Carl Miller of Hampton, VA and Yvonne Whitaker and her husband Elder Howard Whitaker of Williamsburg, VA; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one brother, Luke Hairston of Rockville, MD; and a host of other relatives, and friends.

A visitation service for Mr. John W. Hairston will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. with the funeral service at 11 a.m. at Shiloh Apostolic Temple, 60 Shiloh Hills Rd., Ridgeway, VA, with Bishop James Millner, Eulogist. Interment will follow at Carver Memorial Gardens, 869 Parkway Dr., Martinsville.

A public viewing will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Hairston Funeral Home, 301 Fayette St., Martinsville between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Live streaming of the funeral service will be available at Hairston Funeral Home live via Facebook.

Courteous, efficient and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.