Kim Smith Hardison

Kim was born in Ahoskie, NC, but grew up in Grifton, NC. After High School, she graduated from Pitt Community College with a degree in Architectural Drafting Technology. This led to a career in drafting and geographic information systems where she ended her career as a GIS Technician for the City of New Bern’s Electric Department.

While Kim’s vocation required precise measurements and drawing, her passion was art, where she could express her creative side through watercolors and acrylics. She was a former member of the Board of Directors of the Watercolor Society of North Carolina, the Twin Rivers Artists Association and the Craven Arts Council. In 2008, Kim became involved in the creation and operation of the Bear Town Bears, the organization responsible for the many painted bears around New Bern.

Perhaps Kim’s proudest endeavor was participating in the local Big Brothers/Big Sisters program where she mentored young girls and helped them develop into young women. Kim’s dedication to the program led her to be named “Big Sister of the Year” in 1997.

Kim is survived by her husband, Allen M. Hardison of the home; sister, Jennifer Smith and Husband Steve Dilday of Core Point and Grifton, NC; niece, Rebecca Blackmore and husband Andy of Washington, DC; brother-in-law George Hardison and wife Lynn of Rolesville, NC; nephew Dr. Scott Hardison of River Bend, NC; and niece Jenna Fillipone and husband Mike of Ashburn, Virginia.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 31, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary of Garber United Methodist Church, 4201 Country Club Road, Trent Woods, NC. Visitation will be held one hour before the service, also at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the American Lung Association at www.lung.org.

Arrangements entrusted to Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.