Eugene Ramsey Hardin III

Eugene Ramsey Hardin III, known to all as “Buzz,” passed away July 14, 2020. He was born February 2, 1944, in Long Beach, California, where his father was stationed while serving in the Navy. His birthplace inspired a love of beach music, a taste for shrimp, and a tolerance for sunburns.

As a young man, Buzz decided to follow his family legacy of military service. His grandfather, Dr. Eugene R. Hardin of Lumberton, NC, was a medical officer in World War I. Upon returning home, he became the first public health officer chosen in the United States. His father, Ramsey Hardin, was a Navy captain and fighter pilot in the Pacific during World War II. Buzz enlisted in the Marines after his graduation from Davidson College with a B.A. in History. As a First Lieutenant in Vietnam, he earned the Bronze Star for Valor while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company D, First Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines. When one of his squads was attacked by a large North Vietnamese Army force, he organized a reaction force, set up suppressive fire, and established an ambush, resulting in the safe return of all under his command.

Throughout his life, Buzz was happiest when he found ways to play a supporting role. As a former high school and college football player, he delighted in filling the back of his car with sports drinks to hand out after Greenville High football practices. His old van was the transportation of choice for teammates who needed a burger. He accompanied National History Day teams to Washington, DC for ten years, cheering on performers and conducting tours of the National Mall. He took pleasure in assisting English as a Second Language students to understand American traditions and take part in team sports. Whatever children needed-- soccer cleats, a ride to practice, a warm coat, or food for their family--Buzz was ready to provide help.

Buzz was devoted to his home and family. For his wife, Linda Friddle Hardin, he ran countless errands to assist her in teaching English. For his son, Eugene Ramsey Hardin IV, he inspired a love of history and reading as they listened to The Odyssey and The Three Musketeers or watched war movies. Buzz was proud of the discipline he gained from his mother. Like her, he favored organization and precise detail. Like his grandmothers, he treasured Southern hospitality, good manners, and homemade beef stew and corn bread. His favorite family times were simple—browsing at the book store, wading on the beach, or singing along with the “oldies but goodies” on the radio. The family pets miss Buzz’s warm lap and free hand with treats.

Buzz was grateful to the Vet Center of Greenville, especially Counselors David Hollingsworth and Tim Zerr, and the many Vet Center friends who were supportive of him and facilitated his entry into new careers after his discharge from the military.

In addition to his wife and son, Buzz is survived by his brothers, Charles G. Hardin and John Christopher Hardin. In addition to his father, Buzz was predeceased by his mother, Virginia Riggins Hardin, and an infant daughter, Elizabeth Hardin.