Gary Samuel Hearne

Captain Gary Samuel Hearne of Jacksonville, FL passed away on Friday, May 25, 2012. Born in Albemarle, North Carolina, April 8, 1948 to Sammy and Nellie Hearne, Gary lived his life to the fullest and took every opportunity for adventure.

After serving his country proudly in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, Gary attended flight school in Miami, FL, with the ultimate goal of becoming an airline pilot. He worked his way from A&P mechanic to flight engineer with National Airlines and Pan Am, and eventually to Captain with USAirways. Gary also served as a Federal Flight Deck Officer for the Transportation Security Administration until his untimely death.

Gary was a member of The American Legion and VFW post 1689. He had several hobbies, but restoring his childhood home, which he recently completed, was closest to his heart. He was the original owner of Nacho Business, a successful bar, in Jacksonville, FL in the mid-90's, while, as the owner of Carbon Outlaw Motorsports, he raced car #77. In recent years, Gary persused other lifelong dreams such as learning to play the guitar and banjo, and helicopter piloting.

Gary's proudest and most cherished accomplishments were his two daughters, Teri and Randi. He was an exceptional father, teaching and inspiring his daughters, traveling with them, and spending as much time with them as possible.

He is survived by his daughters, Teri Trent (Dan), and Randi Smith (Brian); grandchildren, Corey, Emily, Brianne, Tanner, and Eva; his love, Kathy Hearne and her sons, Adam Mathews (Lisa) and Drew Mathews, and her mother, Virginia Hudson; mother, Nellie Hearne; sisters, Peggy Springer (Roy) and Judy Dunn; first wife and mother of his two daughters, Margery Leonard; his nieces, nephews, admirers and friends are too numerous to mention. Special honor goes to his dogs, Daphne, whom he loved dearly, and Yoda aka "Old Guy".

Gary will be terribly missed by all who knew him. A short graveside service including military honors will be held at Jacksonville National Cemetery in Jacksonville, FL on Wednesday, May 30, 2012 at 11:00 AM.

Arrangements are by Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills Funeral Home, 850 N. St. Johns Bluff. www.hardage-giddenschapelhills.com