HIGHLANDS – Archibald Hart III, “Tom”, passed away at home in Highlands, NC, on May 15, 2020, after a valiant battle with cancer. A native Californian, Tom is survived by his wife of 29 years, Kathy Duvall Hart of Highlands; his son, Dominic Petersen Hart; his grandson, Chase Barneson Hart (Lindsey), and his great-granddaughter, Layla Ruth Hart, all of Sacramento, CA.
He was preceded in death in 2009 by his son, Christian Barneson Hart. Tom was an avid tennis player for most of his life, but his true passion was vintage Italian sports cars, which he raced all over the world.
The profound and lasting impact that Tom had on those who knew and loved him, is immeasurable. He was a man of great kindness, dignity, and grace. Tom left us a better world because he was fully engaged in life, giving love, strength, and an uplifting spirit to all whom he touched. Tom deeply loved his wife and grew to love their life in the welcoming community of Highlands.
Though grieving this immense loss, Tom’s family finds comfort in the words of a close family friend: “‘How like life. The dark times of sorrow and grief are an unbearable reality, but there are also times of joy, elation, and such beauty that blinds the eye. All of this is blended together into the most profound epic that God is directing. The dark times are intricately immeshed with the deep richness and depth that is life.’”
As Tom wished, there will be no service. His ashes will be taken to California to be interred at his beloved Klamath.
In Tom’s memory, please consider donating to The Hospice House Foundation of WNC, P.O. Box 815, Franklin, NC 28744.