Reuben Earl Hart

Reuben Earl Hart, 73, of New Bern, passed away on Thursday, February 3, 2022. He graduated from New Bern High School in 1967 and attended Southwood College and UNC Wilmington. In 1975, he established Neuse Power Mowers and successfully operated his business until his passing. Reuben was a faithful and longtime member of First Baptist Church. He served in many capacities including Deacon and chief usher. Through the years, he was on many committees at church. He was a longtime member of Grantham Masonic Lodge No. 725 A.F. & A.M. and the Sudan Shrine. Reuben loved his wife, his children, his grandchildren and his many friends. He loved his home and his yard and enjoyed entertaining there. He derived great satisfaction in helping others. His acts of kindness to his family, friends, employees and customers made a difference in his life and in theirs.

Reuben was preceded in death by his parents, Reuben S. and Edna J. Hart. He is survived by his loving wife, Carole Hart of the home; children, Alan Hart (Courtney) of New Bern, Stephanie Rzepka (Robert) of Waxhaw, NC, and Brent Hart (Ginger) of New Bern; grandchildren, Taylor Lovallo (Dion) of Huntersville, NC, Hannah Rzepka of Corvallis, OR, Jacob Hart of New Bern, Joshua Hart of New Bern, Sarah Rzepka of Columbia, SC, Patrick Rzepka of Waxhaw, NC; two great grandchildren, Eli Hart and Julian Lovallo; and sisters, Cindy Johnston (Tim) of Bell Arthur, Sue Campbell of New Bern, Teresa Allen of New Bern.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 6, 2022 at Cotten Funeral Home and also from 10 to 11 a.m. on Monday, February 7, 2022 in the First Baptist Church Family Life Center. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, February 7, 2022 in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church with Dr. Richard Seagle officiating. He will be laid to rest at Greenleaf Memorial Park with Masonic Rites.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in his name to First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1463, New Bern, NC 28563.

Arrangements are in the care of Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.