Darrin L. Hartness, 54, of Advance, went home to be with Jesus July 11, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones, at his home. He is fully healed from a hard-fought battle with cancer.

Darrin was born and raised in Gastonia, and was the son of Gayle Marsh Hartness and the late John H. Hartness, Jr. He met Lisa at a church camp during his teenage years, and they got married in 1989. The young couple enjoyed their newlywed years at Appalachian State University. Darrin and Lisa raised their girls in a few different towns in NC, including Albemarle, Kings Mountain, Mount Airy, and Mocksville. He built vibrant friendships and was thankful to have met so many wonderful people in each place he lived.

Dr. Hartness led a long career in education and had an undeniable impact on a handful of communities. He served as the school superintendent in Surry and Davie counties, and he ended his career as president of Davidson-Davie Community College. Darrin was a humble, compassionate, and selfless leader who was dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and adults.

Work played a huge role in Darrin's life, but his primary focus was unquestionably his relationship with God and his family. Darrin surrendered his life to Jesus as a young boy, and he lived an abundant life of gratitude, laughter (he had a plethora of dad jokes), and joy as a follower of God. He was marked by his calm, warm, and wise nature that continually brought peace to our circumstances. Darrin was the epitome of a "family man," and he would do anything for his girls. He enjoyed traveling (particularly to the mountains), listening to and playing music, woodworking, and spending time with his loved ones.

He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 34 years, Lisa King Hartness; his daughters, Madison Josupait (Andrew), and Molly Scarbrough (Cole); his mom; his sister, Audra Hartness (Danielle Henslee); and many family-like friends, including the Welborn and Wallace families, who will also cherish his memory.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, July 15, at Center Grove Baptist Church in Clemmons. Following the service, the family will receive friends in the church lobby.

In lieu of food and flowers, please consider memorials to Davidson-Davie Community College Foundation, P.O. Box 1287, Lexington, NC 27293, please memo either Hartness Excellence Endowment or Hartness Student Success Scholarship; or Davie Community Foundation, P.O. Box 546, Mocksville, NC 27028, please memo either Ignite Davie or Darrin and Lisa Hartness Family Scholarship Fund; or Trellis Supportive Care, 377 Hospital Street, Ste. 103, Mocksville, NC 27028.

Online condolences www.lambertfuneralhomenc.com