Anthony "Tony" Del Hairston

Abbey Hairston planted 5 trees in memory of Anthony "Tony" Del Hairston . - July 26, 2025

Plant trees for Anthony "Tony" Del Hairston

Abbey Hairston sent Ocean Devotion for Anthony "Tony" Del Hairston - July 26, 2025

I had the privilege of being one Mr. Hairston's students during my time at MM Jr and Sr High schools. Truly one of the best people that I have known. His classrooms were always amazing places to learn and grow. May God's blessings be with all who knew him and mourn his passing. MM Class of 77.

John, and the rest of the family, so sorry to hear of your dad's home going. He was a remarkable man and a pillar of the Pine Hall and Madison communities for so many years. I remember him as a kid and teen growing up there and several conversations with him. Truly remarkable man who never met a stranger and was always kind to everyone!

I shed tears because he is gone and smile because he has lived. I will cherish Tony's memory and let it live on in my heart. I will hold the family in the light...

Tony was a good guy. I will miss him.

It is with much grief and sorrow we send condolences to our beloved Tony's family. Ted Mona and sons. We are sending our love ,prayers and condolences.Please call us the Telephone is in my name LaShene Lowe. Westfield

My heart is saddened by the passing of Mr Hairston, and I pray that his family will find comfort knowing he is with his Lord. On the list of teachers that had great influence in my life, Mr, Hairston would be at the top. He cared about his students and wanted the best for each of us. That was evident in 1971, not something I realized years later. I had the privilege of talking to him at our last class reunion and hoped to do the same at our 50th in a few months. However, I know I will see him in Heaven. A day I look forward to.

My deepest heartfelt condolences to the Hairston family. I have fond memories of Mr. Hairston from when I was in high school, class of '76.

To the grieving members of our Hairston family, we are so very sorry to hear of Tony's passing and we lift you and your extended family in prayer. We have learned from this experience that as you call on God and lean on Him, He will answer and He will bear you up and carry you forward in your distress. Lovingly Submitted, Dr. Iris Hairston Cooley and Family

When you attend a 50th high school reunion and classmates ask "anyone know if Tony Harrison is coming?", you know that must have been one amazing teacher! All these years later, I can still recall his smile and his unique laugh. He clearly was meant to teach, and teach in a way that made every student feel special to him. My prayers go out to the family. I hope you take great comfort in knowing what an impactful like Tony led. He will be long remembered. Debra Sharp Christie M&M Class of '74

Mr. Hairston was the epitome of class. I treasure the years he taught at Madison-Mayodan Sr. High. The world could use more people like him.

The world is a little more dim today with the loss of Tony Hairston. He was a wonderful teacher, who taught me with such care and clarity. He loved his students and we knew it. He "made" you work hard in a way that you were so crazy about his classes, it wasn't work at all. Singing, dancing, humming-Tony's joy was contagious. He left an indelible mark on my life that followed me since. Prayers for his family, friends and all who remain to carry his memory.

So many of us, me included, absolutely adored our teacher Mr. Hairston. Tony had a way to relate to us and to inspire us, unlike any other teacher. I was lucky enough to go to Europe in 1973, through Scholastics International, with a group from school. Tony was our leader and chaperone. We spent 39 days traveling throughout Europe with a large group of other students from all over the country. Can you imagine the patience it must have taken for him to keep track of a group of teenagers running free through Europe, during the 70's ? He kept his cool and he kept his word. He grounded me promptly for breaking curfew. Respect. My condolences to all his family. Fond memories of this lovely man.

Mona and Family

I was so deeply saddened to hear about Tony's passing. I want you to know that although I'm out of town and will sadly miss the services, my heart is very much with you and your family during this difficult time.

Tony was truly one of a kind — kind, gentle, and quietly powerful in the way he carried himself and connected with others. I'll always remember how he impacted our class at Madison-Mayodan. We must have been among the first students he taught after college, and even then, he came prepared — not just to teach academics, but to teach life.

He taught us what it meant to respect others, to carry ourselves with dignity, and to show up in the world ready. Always so clean-cut, professional, and polished, Tony led by example and encouraged us to "up our game" in every way. His influence went far beyond the classroom — it shaped how we thought, how we acted, and how we saw ourselves.

Please know I'm holding you close in thought and prayer. Tony will be missed, but his lessons and legacy live on in so many of us.

With love and deepest sympathy, Burrell Watkins

My most dear and sincere condolences to the family during this time of loss. May God keep you all and give you strength at this time. Most Respectfully, Dexter Welch 421 Broadmoor Drive Nashville, Tennessee 37216 615-243-1495 funtymes596@yahoo.com

Mr. Hairston was a great teacher. Enjoyed his classes especially Journalism!

Tony was a special person always willing to help others. Sending prayers for all.

Tony was hands down the best teacher I had in high school. He had the unique talent of making learning both interesting and fun. He cared for and about his students, and will be missed by those lucky enough to cross his path. He spread joy with his wit, and happiness with his singing, which he would often do in class. Onward and upward Mr. Hairston❤️

It was an honor and a pleasure to be a part of and to serve on the London High School Alumni Reunion Planning Committee in 2013 with Tony. I will always be grateful to him for standing beside me the night of our reunion banquet and expressing his recognition, appreciation, and acknowledgement of my efforts to make our 2013 School Reunion a success. His uplifting words made all the hard work that was done worth it. May he rest in heavenly peace.

Angie Broome Welch, Treasurer London High School Alumni

Mr. Hailstones was one of the best teachers at Madison-Mayodan High School. My prayers are with his family. Class of '73.

Anthony was a friend and fellow student at NCA&T whom I met in 1964. He was a studious, quiet, reserved, yet fun loving stand-up guy. I would see him at GHOE and it would be great fun. Condolence to the family and friends. May God continue to bless us.

Please know my thoughts and prayers are with the family. Tony was one of the best teachers I ever had and influenced many lives through his years of teaching. He truly cared about his students and made you want to be the best you could be. He was a wonderful person and will be missed by many. Tammy Berrier Ward - Madison-Mayodan Class of 1979

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.