Jerry Michael Hartis

Jerry Michael Hartis, 76, of Charlotte, died Wednesday, February 28, 2018. Jerry was born in Mecklenburg County on December 22, 1941, the son of James Everette and Wilma Dull Hartis. He grew up in the Charlotte area and at the age of 16, met his wife, Eugenia, when she was 14. Two days after Eugenia turned 18, the two were married on July 18, 1961. Jerry enlisted in the United States Air Force where he worked as an equipment operator at Mather AFB outside San Diego, California, until he was honorably discharged. Upon his discharge, he moved back to Charlotte where he worked for Monroe Calculator as a repairman. After a time, Jerry went to work for the CSX Railway where he started as a Switchman and moved up to Conductor. After 30 years with CSX, he retired. Jerry enjoyed many things in life. He enjoyed cooking BBQ, travelling, and experiencing different southern cuisines. They were known to travel in any direction until either half the money or half the time was gone then they would return home. Most of all, he enjoyed the time spent with family and friends and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Big proponents of education, he and his wife were also very proud of their grandchildren earning their college degrees. Jerry is survived by: his son James E Hartis (wife Susan) of Indian Trail, NC, and their sons Corey and Carson; his daughter Jodie M Hartis of Iron Station, NC, and her children Michelle Threlkeld Derouin (husband Jesse) of Lewisville, NC, Patrick M Dahlen of Mooresville, NC, and Kelsea L Dahlen of Charlotte, NC. Jerry is further survived by his siblings: Phyllis Mitchum of Huntersville, NC, Jim Hartis of Charlotte, and Joyce O’Keefe of Charlotte; as well as numerous other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Eugenia, in 2004; his parents and numerous other relatives. The Hartis family has given the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home of Matthews the privilege of serving them. A gathering of friends and family will be held from 3 to 4 pm on Sunday, March 4, at the funeral home, 4715 Margaret Wallace Road, Matthews. At 4 pm, all will join in the chapel for a Celebration of Life Service led by Mr. Michael Neddo. In celebrating his life, all present will be invited to share a memory of Jerry so please bring those stories to share. After the service, all will conclude in the chapel. In honor of his fondness for education, the family respectfully requests memorials in his name be made to Discovery Place in Charlotte. You may do so online at https://www.discoveryplace.org/support/donate

Jerry Michael Hartis

December 22, 1941 - February 28, 2018