Albert Winfred “Buddy” Hargrove Jr, 79, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and pawpaw, passed away on April 6th, 2026, at his home in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Born in Fayetteville, North Carolina on September 7th, 1946, Albert split his years on Earth in many different parts of the United States. These include Washington D.C, Altus, Oklahoma, Kansas City, Missouri, Lebanon, Illinois, San Antonio, Texas, and Rock Hill, South Carolina, with Rock Hill being the place he called home for the longest period of time.
Serving 23 years in Personnel in the United States Air Force and achieving the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, Albert served his country with devoted valor, honor and determination. His service career was highlighted by a one year deployment to Greece. The numerous twists, turns and epic moments of his time in the service would make the protagonists of many Tom Clancy novels blush. Albert’s love of country undergirded his personal character, belief system and view of the world.
Upon whatever Albert focused his attention, it soon became his reality. Between automotive mechanics, carpentry, gardening, steel working, costume making, sketching, painting, fishing and hunting, Albert never allowed idle hands to come into the picture. He was truly a modern day Renaissance man, refusing to pigeonhole himself into any one area of specific interest. But, should he have decided to pursue any of his many special interests as a career, he would’ve been considered among the greatest achievers in the history of that field. His ability to pick up a hobby or trade and quickly assume a master level proficiency in it made him the designated “Fixer” for any problems his loved ones might have faced. His brilliance could only be seen to be believed.
A matter-of-fact pragmatist by trade, Albert moved through life with a quiet generosity and affection for those around him. If someone mentioned that their sink wasn’t working, he’d find a spare key and fix it for them while they were at work. If someone said that they’d been stressed lately, he’d leave an assortment of their favorite candy at their doorstep. Albert found meaning and personal fulfillment in acts of service.
Though he would contest it, Albert had a unique and gentle harmonious touch with animals. Domesticated pets and wild animals alike, Albert could baby talk a deer into eating out of his palm, or get the most ornery of house cat to accept a belly rub from him.
A natural storyteller, Albert possessed a cinematic ability to regale you with accounts, anecdotes and tales of his youth.
Albert was a die-hard sports fan, with his affinity towards his adopted hometown San Antonio Spurs being chief among his team allegiances. Albert got to witness the team win their 5th franchise championship in person in San Antonio in June of 2014.
Albert lived an experience and love filled life and will be dearly missed by those who knew him.
Condolences can be made at www.greenefuneralhome.net.