Clide “Tony” Hairston, age 67, departed this earthly life on October 8, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of family, love, and cherished memories. Born in Henry County, Virginia, Tony will be remembered by those who knew and loved him for the place he held in their hearts and the memories they shared throughout his life.

Tony was born in Henry County, VA on July 22, 1959, to the late Harry Hairston and Annie Dodson Hairston. In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by one brother, William Ayers.

Tony was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife who brought happiness and joy to his life, Amanda Crews Hairston of the home; his children, Antonio Marquis Hairston Sr. of Decatur, GA, Jasmine L. Hairston Southern Pines, NC, Kristel J. Hairston of Martinsville, VA, Cameron L. Martin of Martinsville, VA, Caleb M. Martin Williamsburg, VA, and Alayia Crews of Little Rock, AR; and his grandson, Antonio M. Hairston, II of Danville, VA. He also leaves a host of extended family members, including his sisters, Sylvia D. Millner, Linda H. Hairston, Sophia C. Kelly all of Martinsville, VA and Vanessa Hairston Neal of Woodbridge, VA; his brothers, Jessie J. Hairston of Fayetteville, NC and Keith H. Hairston (Natalie) of Fredericksburg, VA; father and mother-in-law, Cecil and Barbara Crews of Long Island, VA, in-laws, Shelia (Calvin) Watson of Lynchburg, VA, Andre (Marilyn) Crews of Altavista, VA, Cecil “Rod” (Tammy) Crews of Charlotte, NC and Amelia "Nay" (Russell) Abrams of Richmond, VA; along with a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Tony was a graduate of George Washington Carver high school class of 1977. Tony furthered his education at John Tyler Community College, where he earned an Associate Degree in Mortuary Science. He worked at Tultex, Southern Finishing and later at Laser delivery. He proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran, carrying with him the distinction of having answered the call to serve.

Though our hearts are heavy in the face of this loss, we find comfort in knowing that life’s journey does not end with our final breath. As Scripture reminds us in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” May this promise bring peace to those who mourn, reminding them that love endures, memories remain, and God’s grace is sufficient even in seasons of sorrow.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 12 noon, at Greater Love Ministries, 906 E. Church St., Martinsville with Bishop Avery Preston, Presiding and Pastor Keith Hawes, Eulogist. Interment will follow at Carver Memorial Gardens, 869 Parkway Dr., Martinsville.

The family will receive friends at Hairston Funeral Home on Friday, October 16, 2026, between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Live streaming of the funeral service will be available at Hairston Funeral Home live via Facebook.

Courteous, efficient and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.