Edward Lee "Shorty" Estes

Edward Lee “Shorty” Estes, 86, of Hiddenite, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2026, at the Gordon Hospice House.

Shorty was born on August 2, 1939, in Iredell County to the late Grady Jackson “Jack” Estes and Pearlie Mae Sipes Estes. A lifelong member of Fern Hill Baptist Church, he faithfully served as both a deacon and treasurer. For many years, he worked as a truck driver in the concrete industry. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, sharing coffee with friends, and dining at Scotty’s Hometown Grill. Above all, Shorty cherished his family and treasured the time he spent with them.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda Severt Estes and two brothers, Harold Estes and Donnie Estes.

Those left to cherish his memory are his four nieces, whom he considered daughters, Teresa Wike (Anthony), Tina Bright (Chad), Jackie Burgess and Donna Swicegood; several great nieces and great nephews, whom he loved as his grandchildren; three brothers, Hubert Estes (Earlene), Ernie Estes (Ginger) and Clifford Estes (Sharon); and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, June 6 at Fern Hill Baptist Church with Dr. Jesse Stroud and Rev. Anthony Wike officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will visit with friends prior to the service from 3:00 pm until 4:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Gordon Hospice House, 2341 Simonton Road, Statesville NC 28625, or to Fern Hill Baptist Church, 872 Fern Hill Road, Mooresville NC 28117.

Arrangements for Shorty are in the care of Troutman Funeral Home.