Lee Perritt Hedgecoe: Eastover
1953 – 2024
Lee Perritt Hedgecoe of Eastover died on Oct. 13. He was 71.
Lee was born Feb. 10, 1953 to Alice Sarvis Hedgecoe and Lee Berton (“LB”) Hedgecoe, Jr., in Tabor City. In 1971, he graduated from Tabor City High School where he played football and baseball for the Red Devils and earned “Best Offensive Lineman” his senior year.
After starting his college education at Mars Hill University, he ultimately graduated from his beloved University of South Carolina, earning a bachelor’s degree in history and political science, and a master’s in education.
He was a teacher, coach, and financial advisor, serving families in the community and ensuring their financial future.
Lee served as chairman of the Cumberland County Republican Party, president of the Eastern North Carolina Gamecock Club, and a councilman of Eastover City Council.
On June 28, 1980, he married the love of his life, Beth. They enjoyed a charmed and beautiful life together. Their lives revolved around their beloved two children, Elizabeth and Berton.
Lee will be remembered as the most excellent father. He coached Berton and Elizabeth’s sports teams and never missed a football, basketball, softball, or baseball game. Some of his children’s fondest memories are conversations with him while driving back from games. He was incredibly proud of his children, especially when Elizabeth graduated twice from his alma mater, with both undergraduate and law degrees. He was immensely proud of his son, Berton, who graduated from The Citadel and continues to serve his community in law enforcement. His grandchildren were his greatest joy; they will miss their “Poppy” beyond words.
Lee was a true Southern gentleman, exceptionally genteel, handsome, paternal, and loving. Lee was always the best-dressed man at any event and will be remembered for his extraordinary collection of bow ties.
He was a passionate fan of South Carolina Gamecock sports and never missed a Gamecock football game. A member of the Boykin Spaniel Society, he adored his dogs (which some may argue, were his favorite children), Beau and Scarlett. He taught Sunday School and was a church deacon.
He was an honorary employee at Hedgecoe Dentistry. He loved politics and debating. He was an avid sportsman and hunter, recently enjoying a pheasant hunting trip in South Dakota with the Hedgecoe men. He never met a stranger and treasured every friendship.
A member of Cedar Falls Baptist Church, Lee’s passion was teaching and sharing the gospel and leading others to Christ. He never missed an opportunity to thank God and pray with those who needed His grace. Lee loved the Lord, and we know he is without pain in His Savior’s arms.
Lee is survived by his wife of 44 years, Elizabeth Piner Hedgecoe; his children, Elizabeth Hedgecoe Neyle (Edmund) and Berton Lee Hedgecoe (Brittany); his four grandchildren, Virginia Neyle, Madeline Hedgecoe, Witsell Neyle, and Emma Hedgecoe; sister-in-law Margaret Hedgecoe; nephew David Hedgecoe; niece Anne Hedgecoe Smith; brother-in-law Tom Piner (Teresa); beloved cousins, nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews; and so many dear friends.
Lee was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, S. Joel Hedgecoe.
A memorial service was planned for 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18, at Cedar Falls Baptist Church, 6181 Ramsey Street in Fayetteville.
Visitation was planned during the hour preceding the service in the church.
Sign a guest register here.
