Barbara June Hager

Barbara June Hager, 89, died peacefully at the home she loved in the Cool Springs community of North Carolina, joining her Lord on May 21, 2026.

Born on December 31, 1936, in Farmington, Georgia, June was the daughter of Troy and Willie Belle Evans. She met the love of her life, Johnny Hager, at New Salem United Methodist Church, where she was teaching Sunday School. Together they shared nearly 61 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and service to others. Earlier this year when asked what was most important to her, she thoughtfully replied, “my husband.”

Johnny and June made their home on Greenbrier Road in Statesville for more than two decades before moving to cherished family land in the Cool Springs community. Together they raised three daughters: Candis Brown, who preceded her in death; Paula Hecht (Michael) and Susan Cooper (Scott). June and Johnny were proud grandparents to five beloved grandchildren: Jonathan, Samantha, Sarah Jo, Michael, and Danielle.

In addition to her husband, Johnny, June is survived by her sister, Joann Poore (Jim); her nephew, William “Bill” Jurney (Sue); and their children, Troy (Cassie) and Madison.

June’s life was defined by her deep love for her family, her home, and the Lord. She was an exceptional cook whose famous crab dip appetizer and homemade dessert pies were favorites at family gatherings and church events alike. For decades, she lovingly tended vegetable and flower gardens, spending countless hours growing, cooking, canning, and sharing the fruits of her labor with those she loved. Her home was often brightened with fresh flowers from her garden, placed carefully in the many vases she filled throughout the years. June and Johnny spent countless days in rocking chairs on the front porch, watching the sun set and enjoying the gentle breeze.

She was also a devoted fan of UNC basketball and rarely missed an opportunity to support her children and grandchildren in the activities they loved.

June faithfully served her community in many ways. She volunteered at East Iredell Elementary School, where she served as PTA President, and was an active member of the North Iredell High School Booster Club. Her greatest service, however, was through New Salem United Methodist Church, where she dedicated herself to numerous ministries over the years. She served as a Sunday School teacher, participated in the Mildred Turner Women’s Group, became a Lifetime Member of Methodist Women, and held leadership roles including President and District Treasurer for Methodist Women. She dearly loved her church family and the women alongside whom she faithfully served.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to their loving neighbors, church family, and caregivers — Linda, Lovina, Pammy, Susan, Candace, and Coco — as well as the compassionate staff of Carolina Caring for their kindness and care.

A memorial service to honor June will take place at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at New Salem United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the “New Salem Cemetery Fund,” mailed to New Salem United Methodist Church, 155 New Salem Road, Statesville, NC 28625.

Arrangements for June Hager are in the care of Troutman Funeral Home.