Eric Ray Harrington "Paw-Paw"

Eric Ray Harrington (“PawPaw”), 58, of Kannapolis, passed away at his home on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Eric was born on June 25, 1967, in Cabarrus County and was a cherished son of Charles and Gail Harrington. He was preceded in death by a nephew, Cory Wayne Harrington.

A proud graduate of South Rowan High School, Eric was a brick mason by trade and found great meaning in the years he spent working alongside his brother Rodney, building both structures and lasting memories. After leaving the brick mason trade, he worked in the steel business delivering to NASCAR race teams – a job he loved for its connection to racing and the opportunity to meet new people, as he never met a stranger. In his later years, Eric worked as a driver for various companies.

Eric’s love for racing began early in life, a passion he inherited from his father and uncles and carried on with his brothers, racing go-karts at local tracks and later racing at Concord Motor Speedway. He passed this love of racing on to his son, Garrett, and together they created a special tradition of camping in the infield for the Memorial Weekend race in Charlotte—a tradition that Garrett will deeply miss.

Eric was known for his vibrant personality and the joy he brought to others. To know Eric was to love him—he could make you laugh even when you didn’t want to and could just as quickly make your blood boil, a reflection of his strong will and unforgettable personality. If you were fortunate enough to call him a friend, you knew you always had someone in your corner.

In addition to his parents, Eric leaves behind his loving children, Garrett Harrington of Kannapolis and Erica Horton (Zach) of Kannapolis. He is also survived by his brothers, Wayne Harrington (Renee) of China Grove and Rodney Harrington (Beth) of Landis, and his sister, Robin Ewing of Kannapolis.

Eric was a proud grandfather to Hope, Parker, and Nora Horton. He will also be dearly missed by his nieces and nephews—Justin Harrington, Colby Harrington (Hannah), and Brooke Morgan (Brett), all of China Grove—as well as three great-nephews and three great-nieces.

Eric is also survived by his loyal companion and best friend, his dog Piper, who will deeply miss their daily rides together.

Eric’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His laughter, loyalty, and larger-than-life spirit will never be forgotten.

The Harrington family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Homestead Baptist Church in Kannapolis. A funeral service, officiated by Pastors Mitch Thomas and Mike Edwards, will immediately follow at 12:30 p.m., with burial to follow at Carolina Memorial Park. Whitley’s Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.