Charles Harkrader Obituary

Charles Johnston Harkrader III, a beloved father, grandfather, educator, and veteran, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, in Frisco, NC, at the age of 81. Born on August 8, 1943, in Bristol, TN, John dedicated his life to teaching, service, family, and the outdoors.
John proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army after attending the Virginia Military Institute. He fought in The Vietnam War, where he was awarded with a Purple Heart and a Silver Star for his valor in combat. After proudly serving in the United States Army, John spent a majority of his career as a high school biology teacher, though nothing compared to his love for the outdoors.
John was an avid outdoorsman, instilling in his children, grandchildren, and friends a passion and appreciation for fishing, hunting, and spending time on the water. He left an indelible mark on all those who had the privilege of knowing and learning from him.
John was a kindhearted man with a great sense of humor and loved joking and bringing a smile to the faces of anyone lucky enough to know him. He was the type of man that would drop everything to help someone in a time of need, his adventures stories and lessons in life will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Charles Harkrader, Jr. MD, and Lucille Harkrader, as well as his cherished wife, Ruth Ann Baxter Harkrader. John is survived by his two loving daughters, Amy Harkrader and Kendall Fleeman, both of Frisco, NC. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Jahfar, Levi, Raven, Brooklynn, Morgan, and Jordon, and a great-grandfather to, Kiley and Boston.
In accordance with his wishes, no public services will be held. John will be remembered for his dedication to his family, and his country. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charles J. Harkrader III, please visit our floral store.