Wilbur Hugh Harkey

On Saturday, December 6, 2025, W. Hugh Harkey, son of the late W. H. “Bill” Harkey, LTC USAF and Sara Jane Eckard Harkey, an award-winning author and historian has finished his research here. The author of Tales from the Hornet’s Nest, More Tales from the Hornet’s Nest, Greetings from Charlotte, and Greetings from Charleston, Hugh wrote about the history of two cities he loved, Charlotte and Charleston. The North Carolina Society of Historians honored him as 1992 Historian of the Year. He appeared on WBTV’s “Top O’ the Day” program in “Hugh on History” segments discussing topics in local history.

Hugh served as co-chairman with Tom Lane of the Mecklenburg Historical Association Committee that created the impetus for the Museum of the New South.

Hugh was the former director of the Florence Museum of Art, Science and History in Florence, SC, and served as a consultant to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission involved with the Trolley Restoration Campaign.

A 1973 graduate of UNCC in History with graduate work at Winthrop University and UNCC, Hugh taught at Garinger High School and Central Piedmont Community College. He spent a number of years in food sales with Murray Distributing and Associated Brokers. He was executive vice-president and manager of Jim’s Sand and Stone in Harrisburg, NC. Prior to his passing, he had been serving as executive vice-president of Old South Mortgage and business manager of HB Financial Resources.

Involved in local history, Hugh’s civic contributions included serving several years as a volunteer docent at the Hezekiah Alexander Homesite and Charlotte History Museum. He was a former board member of both the Hugh Torrance House and Store historic site and the North Carolina Society of Historians. He was a former member of the Ole Meck Genealogical Society and the Mecklenburg Historical Association.

Hugh was a Mason and Shriner. He is a member of Charles M. Setzer Lodge #693 A.F.A.M. and Past Member of Friendship Lodge #700 A.F.A.M. member of Charlotte York Rite and Scottish Rite Bodies, member of Oasis Temple and Past President of the Charlotte Shrine Club.

Hugh was a former member of the Florence Rotary Club in Florence, SC. He was also a former Sunday School teacher at Forest Hills Presbyterian Church in Charlotte.

Almost five years ago, Hugh retired and relocated to Connelly Springs.

Hugh is survived by his loving wife, angel and companion – Patricia “Tish” Berteling Puryear Harkey.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the family at this time.