Gabriel Ted Hadden, Jr.

Gabriel Ted Hadden, Jr., 86, of Matthews passed away peacefully at Hospice Care Union in Monroe on August 4, 2025. A celebration of life will take place on August 9th at 1:00 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5897 Hemby Rd. Weddington, NC 28104.

Born in Spartanburg, SC, Ted pursued his love for art of all kinds. Creativity was born into Ted’s nature and he made a living doing what he loved.  In the summers of his youth, he drew and sold charcoal portraits to tourists at the beach.  As a teenager, Ted worked alongside his father as a journeyman sign painter and eventually opened a sign shop in Atlanta and later Red Barn Publishing in Matthews, NC. His work won numerous awards for ad campaigns and logo designs from such prestigious organizations as the Printing Industry of the Carolinas, Atlanta Advertising Club, and the Printing Industries of America. He was also commissioned to create portraits for Time Magazine’s “Man of the Year” on multiple occasions.  Ted’s formal training occurred at Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, FL and Richmond Professional Institute in Virgina. His artistry never waned. Even after retiring, he created one of a kind art pieces for neighbors and family. He also informed the design and decoration of the home he and Robin built 6 years ago.

Ted filled any space he occupied.  Whenever he entered the scene, smiles and laughter followed. His stories of growing up in Spartanburg were a staple to any visit with him and he loved to entertain with the larger than life experiences he shared. 

He lived to love others and offer honor, kindness, humility, and empathy to anyone he encountered.  Ted had a passion for people.  He’d want us to remember him…by always doing the same.   

He is survived by his wife Robin and children Matt Hadden, Alicia Hadden Kiker, Erin Hadden Moore, Lauren Hadden de Wet and Nathan Hadden. Grandchildren Megan Hadden, Hillary Hadden Sigmon, Matthew Jarrett (deceased), Tyler West, Emry Moore, Anslee Moore, Silas de Wet, Delaney de Wet, Hailey Hadden, Luke Hadden and Aden Hadden. Great grandchildren: Savannah Sigmon and Ava Ocker.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Canine Companions for Independence at https://canine.org/donate-now/