Andy McCree Hern, 79, of Morganton, passed away Saturday, March 29, 2025. He was the son of George Alexander Hern and Mary Hefner Hern. A renowned photographer and respected pillar of the community, he was always extending a helping hand. Beginning his photography career at the Morganton News Herald, he later opened his own photography studio where he was a professional photographer for 47 years. Having held a high position as a former member of PPNC (Professional Photographers of North Carolina), he inspired many. Everyone in Morganton has an uplifting story of their experience with his photography and were positively touched by his kindness. As a first responder with the Rescue Squad, he is most famously known for delivering a baby, therefore, receiving the ‘Man of the Year’ award.
He is survived by his two daughters, Wendy Wagner (Charlie) and Heather Brown; granddaughter, Taylor Hylemon; sister, Joy Guzman (Collin); and former wife, Sherry Eckard.
He will always be remembered and sadly missed in the hearts of many.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m., Thursday, April 3, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, April 4, 2025 at Walker Road Baptist Church with Pastor Mark Ball officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Walker Road Baptist Church, c/o Pastor Mark Ball, 100 Walker Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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My condolences to Joy and family. Andy was a friend , and knew the goodness of our Lord. He often spoke of the afterlife and no longer being in pain or this evil place we call earth. He was appreciative of the good things in His life; Especially a young girl he raised to see grow to a beautiful woman. I will always have fond memories of Andy. There was always laughter with his witty comments.And The only person to convince my father to smile for a picture. I will miss you Andy!❤️
You have my deepest sympathy. May God be with you to provide comfort and strength at this time.
To the Family of Andy, as you know he will greatly be missed! I’m glad I had the opportunity to grow up with him taking pictures of my family, and then my of children. If anyone knows Andy he knew how to make people laugh especially when taking photos, I sometimes mock him when I take photos of my kids, and they still laugh at me to this day. I also had the privilege of growing up behind his studio at my mother‘s shop with him as a role model. He is a great guy and would be greatly missed.
Andy was a great guy, would give you the shirt off his back. He always did a super job with the kids pictures and we always enjoyed talking with him. He will be mssed