Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

May 28, 2026

CHARLOTTE – Mrs. Margaret Hathcock Almond, 86, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Novant Health Matthews Medical Center.

Born on March 10, 1940, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Margaret was the daughter of the late Thomas Burton Hathcock and Bertha Elizabeth Hathcock.  The eighth of nine children, she was raised in a close-knit family that instilled in her the values of hard work, determination, faith, and service to others.

On June 2, 1957, she married the love of her life, Tommy Allen Almond, and together they shared nearly 70 years of devoted marriage.  Their life together was built on faith, family, friendship, and an unwavering commitment to one another.

A woman of remarkable drive and accomplishment, Margaret devoted 41 years to First Citizens Bank.  Beginning her career as an installment loan clerk, she steadily advanced through the organization and retired as Senior Vice President.  Her professional success reflected her intelligence, perseverance, and exceptional leadership.

Margaret was also a dedicated public servant and passionate advocate for her community.  Active in local and state politics for many years, she worked tirelessly on behalf of the Republican Party.  She served as Pat McCrory’s first campaign manager, helping guide his successful election as Mayor of Charlotte and later supporting his election as Governor of North Carolina.  She was appointed to the North Carolina Judicial Standards Commission as the citizen representative, providing oversight and accountability for the state’s judiciary.  Margaret also served as a Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for foster children and representing their interests in court.  Margaret served as chairperson of the Diaconate at St. John’s Baptist Church.  She mentored other businesswomen through the National Association of Bank Women and shared her joy at their professional successes.  She believed deeply in civic responsibility and generously gave her time, talents, and energy in service to others.

Above all, Margaret loved people.  She never met a stranger and possessed a rare gift for making others feel welcome and valued.  She drew energy from being around people and was known for her warmth, country wit, and determined spirit.  Family and friends often remarked that if someone told Margaret she could not accomplish something, she would make up her mind to do it—and then prove them wrong.  Her confidence, resilience, and joyful outlook inspired all who knew her.

Margaret was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Stacey Allyn Almond, on August 11, 2023.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband of 69 years, Tommy Allen Almond; her daughter, Kelly Elizabeth Almond; her grandchildren, Rachel Cameron Seets of Charleston, SC, Charles Wesley Seets III of Atlanta, GA, and Margaret Elizabeth Seets of Raleigh, NC; her sister, Rachel Barbee Hudson of Albemarle, NC; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family is grateful for the many expressions of love, prayers, and support during this time.

There will be a Celebration of Life in Margaret’s honor at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at St. John’s Baptist Church.  The family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall following the service.  The service will be livestreamed through the church website:  https://stjohnsbaptistchurch.org/worship/live-stream/ for those unable to attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Memorial Fund of St. John’s Baptist Church, 300 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Margaret’s legacy of faith, determination, service, and love lives on in the hearts of her family and the countless lives she touched.  Her family rejoices in the assurance that she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606.  Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.