George Edward "Ed" Pike

George Edward “Ed” Pike, 85, passed away peacefully at Chatham Hospital surrounded by his family on Friday, May 24th, 2024.

Edward was a native of Chatham County. He was born in Siler City on December 13th, 1938, to the late Rachel Smith Pike. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Mary Hurlene Pickard Pike; his daughter, Sarah P. Siler Gardner; and his son, George Daniel “Danny” Pike.

Edward was a graduate of Silk Hope High School, Class of 1957. He was a member of Rocky River Baptist Church where he served in various positions including deacon, choir member, and Baptist Training Union Director. Throughout his life he was not only a beloved coworker, but a beloved neighbor, and friend to many in the Silk Hope Community where he was raised and lived his entire life.

Edward worked in textiles the majority of his life. He primarily worked at Collins and Aikman with some years spent at both Cone Mills and Ramtex.

He was a devoted family man and always worked two or more jobs to provide for his wife and five children. At the age of 60, he retired from public work and became a chicken farmer, which was something he had always wanted to do. He worked and managed the farm for approximately 21 years before retiring.

Most importantly, Ed loved Jesus and raised his children in a Christian Home. He loved his family, and that love was reciprocated.

Ed was a kind, compassionate, hard-working man who loved country music and loved to laugh. Some of his friends would describe him as a prankster. He certainly loved to tell jokes and “cut up”.

Ed is survived by his children; daughter, Diane Wright and husband, Tony; sons, Manuel Pike and wife Andrea, Chris Pike, and wife Catie, all of Siler City; daughter-in-law, Pam Pike; son-in-law, Frankie Gardner; 15 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren; as well as his beloved cat, Gus AKA Big Gus.

A graveside service will be held Friday, May 31st, 2024, at 4 pm at Rocky River Baptist Church. Visitation will be after the service in the fellowship hall. Service will be officiated by Pastor Steve Moore. Other times will be at the daughter, Diane’s house – 1050 Smith Hudson Rd., Siler City, NC 27344.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to Rocky River Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Pike family.

Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh.com