Reflection of Life
Mr. Eric Ajanaku Hanes was born on September 2, 1975 in Hickory, North Carolina to the late Nannie E. Haynes and Roosevelt "Pete" Gaither. He departed this life unexpectedly on July 24, 2025 at his home.

As a 1994 graduate, Eric was a proud alumnus of Hickory High School. He had a lifelong fascination with automobiles and dedicated his career to working as a truck driver.

Eric had a great sense of humor. The biggest life lesson he taught was to love and care for family and others. The nicest thing about Eric is that he would help anyone in need. He would like for the family to remember and keep each other in prayer.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Marvin L. Haynes, and his sister, Patricia Barnes.

Surviving to cherish his memories are his sister in-law, Regina Allred Haynes of Claremont, North Carolina; nephew, Marcell Williams of Wilmington, North Carolina; special friends, Tabith Hull, Belinda Clark, and Melinda Ikard, all of Hickory, North Carolina; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 4:00p.m. at the Walter Gladys Memorial Chapel of Dirk M. Thompson Mortuary (147 5th Street Court Southeast, Hickory, North Carolina).  Reverend Reggie Longcrier is officiating.