05/14/2026
Jerry Benjamin Hart, 72, of Raleigh, NC, went to his heavenly home on May 13, 2026, and is now with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Jerry was born July 1st 1953 in Greene County, NC, and raised in Pitt County, NC, by Henry Harper Hart and Ruby Ellen Gray Hart. As a young boy, Jerry enjoyed his time in the Scouts and was known for being the best camp cook. His highest achievement was earning the rank of Eagle Scout; an accomplishment he remained deeply proud of throughout his life.
Much of Jerry’s youth was spent with his grandfather, Quillie Gray of Snow Hill, NC, cooking barbecue. Together, they dreamed of one day opening a BBQ restaurant.
Jerry moved to Raleigh in 1973, where he spent several years working in the food and beverage industry, catering for small events and participating in competition cooking.
On May 10, 1993, Jerry and his wife Kathy opened the doors of Ole Time Barbecue in Raleigh, NC. For 33 years, Jerry proudly owned and operated the restaurant, serving his community in many ways beyond just a warm meal.
Jerry was known as a giver. If someone was in need, he was always ready to step in and help. Whether raising money for children battling brain tumors or providing Christmas gifts for children at an orphanage, Jerry gave wholeheartedly and unconditionally.
Jerry was also deeply involved in the motorcycle community. He served as president of the BBQ Brothers Riding Club, where he spent many years riding and raising money for those in need.
After retiring from the restaurant, Jerry enjoyed camping trips with his wife Kathy, making friends wherever they went. Jerry’s personality was as big as his heart. He never met a stranger and was always good for a big hug, a laugh, and an “I love you.”
Jerry was a 32° Master Mason and a member of William T. Bain Masonic Lodge 231, Amran Shriners, and Scottish Rite.
Jerry and the love of his life, Kathy Stamm Hart, were married in August 1987. Together they shared 38 wonderful years filled with travel, camping adventures, motorcycle rides, and cherished memories.
Jerry was an amazing father to daughter Jessica Hart Storts; son Benjiman Hart and wife Crystal Malie Hart; and daughter Alisa Hart Grena and husband Joseph Grena.
He also adored his four grandchildren: granddaughters Emma Hart and Abigail Storts, and twin grandsons Cyrus and Sawyer Grena.
Jerry instilled in his children and grandchildren the simple but powerful belief: “Do one random act of kindness every day.”
The family will receive friends and loved ones on Wednesday, May 20, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00p.m. at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 1200 Benson Road, Garner, NC 27529.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, May 21, at 11:00 a.m. at Holland’s Church, 9433 Ten-Ten Road, Raleigh, NC 27603.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Masonic Home for Children in Oxford.
