Herman M. Estridge

Herman M. Estridge, affectionately known as "Hank" passed away peacefully in Naples, Fl on August 28, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born on November 1, 1939 to the late William Herman Estridge and Sarah Elizabeth Estridge (McAdoo) in Greensboro, NC. He is survived by his loving partner of thirty years, Audrey Smandra of Bonita Springs, his brother, Rick B. Estridge of Greensboro, NC and his five children, Kelly R. Matchett of Tallahassee, Fl, Kacey E. Estridge of Estero, Fl, Devin B. Estridge (Laura) of Sylva, NC, Blitz W. Estridge (Mary) of Sylva, NC and Alicia E. Stewart (Matthew) of Cullowhee, NC; five grandchildren, Cameron Estridge, Trent Stewart, Maeli Smith, Emma Kate Stewart, and Bexley Bay Estridge; and one great grandchild, Tsali Bird; nephew, Bret Estridge (Katie) of Columbia, SC, niece, Lauren Estridge (Charles Owens) of Richmond, VA. Herman graduated from Rankin High School and attended Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, NC for one year before enlisting in the United States Navy. Upon discharge after 4 years, he completed his Bachelor's Degree at the University of Tampa. He began working for the pharmaceutical division of Marion Laboratories and eventually became a Senior Professional Medical Representative covering the entire state of Florida. After having two heart attacks at age 33 and 35 followed by heart bypass surgery by Dr. Michael DeBakey in Houston, TX, he retired in his early 40's. He was a founding golf member of Fiddlesticks C.C. in Ft. Myers, Fl and enjoyed many good rounds of golf with his children, and Fiddlesticks' friends and Audrey over the years during which he made "6 holes in one" at various golf courses. In 1996 his health began to deteriorate; he suffered a third heart attack and was told that he needed a heart transplant. He traveled to Emory University Hospital in Atlanta and miraculously received a new heart on April 12, 1997 after waiting just two weeks. The heart was a good match and he lived 28+ years, enjoying the things he loved to do as well as traveling and spending time with his family. The funeral service will be held on October 25th at 1:00 P.M. in the Chapel at First Presbyterian Church in Bonita Springs with internment following the service in the Resurrection Garden. Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home is handling funeral arrangements. Memorials may be given in Hank's name to The America Heart Association or to Avow Hospice in Naples, Fl.