Jerry Lee Hanes Sr., was born on May 26, 1948 to Harry Lee Hanes Sr. and Mary Alice Riggins Hanes in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Jerry was a proud father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, veteran, and artist. Jerry passed away peacefully on June 22, 2024 in his home.


In his early years, Jerry was a devoted member of Rising Ebenezer Baptist Church in the Happy Hill Community. He attended Winston-Salem / Forsyth County public schools and was a proud graduate of Anderson High School Class of 1967, where he excelled as a letterman on the varsity basketball team. Following high school, Jerry honorably served his country in the Navy during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he attended Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts degree in 1976 and further developed his artistic vision under nationally known artists and educators such as department chair Hayward Oubre, James T. Diggs, Jr., Roland Watts, and Mitzi Shewmake. Jerry always expressed his greatest admiration for his two mentors and friends Professors Oubre and Professor Diggs, who both continuously inspired and supported his passion for art.


Jerry had a diverse and accomplished career, working with R.J. Reynolds Corporation, Container Corporation, Schlitz Brewery and eventually retiring from Johnson Controls after serving as a supervisor and manager. He established J.L.H. Productions, where he curated his visual art and design efforts. As the CEO, he also used his production company as a means to advocate for the arts in Winston-Salem, NC.


His accolades and associations included being an active alumnus of the Anderson Class of 1967, Historian for the American Legion Post 128, member of the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge as a 32nd Degree Mason, board member for the Happy Hill Neighborhood Association, and former East Winston Chairman for Precinct 404. His art exhibitions include the Black Arts Festival, Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art Winston-Salem (SECCA), the Delta Arts Center, Downtown Arts District Association Art Gallery, and the Happy Hill Reunion. Most recently, Jerry was especially proud and honored his collection of fifty artistic portraits entitled the "Winston-Salem Legacy from My Perspective" will be on exhibit at the MUSE Winston-Salem upon its grand opening. The Museum of Understanding Storytelling & Engagement (MUSE) is a history and art museum focused on providing a diverse and deeper understanding of the city's history and art. Jerry was ecstatic to confirm the museum loan agreement for his artwork on Juneteenth Holiday 2024.


He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Lee Hanes Sr. and Mary Alice Riggins Hanes; siblings, Harry Lee Hanes Jr., Rogers Riggins, Rosa Lee Riggins Eller, Sylvia Hanes Boyd; and his former wife, Betty Hanes.


Jerry is survived by his beloved children, Jerry L. Hanes Jr. (Jenelle) of Atlanta, GA and Jamal Lamont Hanes of Phoenix, AZ; his devoted siblings in Winston-Salem, NC, Cynthia Hanes Crosby (Stoney), Ann Carol Hanes Little, and Charles Hanes (Delba). He was a cherished grandfather to three grandchildren Jordyn Mackenzie, Joy Meadow, and Jerry Lee Hanes III (JT) of Atlanta, GA, and leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.


Jerry's legacy as a talented artist, dedicated professional, and loving family man will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him. His commitment to the arts and his community, specifically the historic Happy Hill Community will continue to inspire and influence those who were fortunate enough to experience his work and passion.


In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations "In Honor of Jerry Hanes Sr." to MUSE Winston-Salem, a museum supporting Winston-Salem history and art, including a collection by the Artist Jerry Hanes, Sr. at the link HERE or Winston-Salem State University specifically for Diggs Gallery at the WSSU link HERE.


The family will have the memorial service at the Sims Community Center on Monday, July 1st at 1:30pm. There is no public viewing. Arrangements are in the care of Douthit Funeral Home.