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Life story

" John Kimmons Hord passed away peacefully on February 4 at Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Originally from Concord, North Carolina, a 1962 graduate of Concord High School, John was a proud Navy veteran who dedicated more than 30 years of civil service to the Department of Defense, working in film and video production. He also ran a photography business specializing in wedding and portrait photography before retiring in May 1999.

An avid fisherman, John loved his little place in Ocean City, Maryland, and looked forward to every summer getting back out on the water and spending time with dear friends, many of whom went back decades. He never met a stranger, always had a joke ready, and was known for his kindness and generosity. He also loved playing his guitar — a passion he picked up early in life and proudly passed on to his sons.

His faith was an important part of his life, and he was a longtime member of St. James Lutheran Church in Concord, NC.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Mary Orchard Boger Hord.

He is survived by Mary Ann Zidow Hord, mother of his sons; his sons, John Hord and Stephen Hord (Nicole Wilson-Hord); his grandchildren, Caileigh Johnson (Gabe Johnson) and Declan; his siblings, Edwin Hord and Orchard Hord Corl; his cousins, Mary Joe Lentz, Ann Boger Karter, and Lyles Boger, with whom he shared a very close bond; his loving companion of 25 years, Carol Wright; and Carol’s family, Greg Wright; Gayle Rainey (Mike Rainey); and Carol’s granddaughter, Dana Utterback (Ryan Utterback).

A graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery in Concord, NC, on March 6 at 1:00 p.m.

John will be remembered for his humor, his music, and his faith, and will be deeply missed by many friends and family members. "