Eric Hairston

Eric Hairston, born December 13, 1976, in McDowell, West Virginia to Francine James and the late David Hairston, peacefully departed this life on May 19, 2026, at Chippenham Hospital. Eric made his home in Columbia, Virginia, where he built a life centered around love, laughter, family, and friendship.

Known affectionately by many as “E,” Eric had a spirit that naturally drew people to him. He was always smiling, polite, and willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He loved to laugh, joke, and make others feel welcomed and appreciated. Whether spending time with family and friends or simply enjoying life’s everyday moments, Eric brought warmth and joy everywhere he went.

Eric attended Charlottesville High School and throughout his life held a variety of jobs. He dedicated 11 years of service to Homewood Suites by Hilton in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he built lasting relationships and earned the respect of both coworkers and guests alike.

Eric was baptized at Pleasant View Baptist Church in 2016, reflecting his faith and commitment to God.

Eric shared a beautiful 21-year journey with the love of his life, Crystal Riddle Hairston. Although they were united in marriage on September 16, 2017, their love story began many years earlier. Together they built a life rooted in love, loyalty, strength, and devotion to family. Eric deeply loved his wife and children, and his greatest joy was being surrounded by those he loved most.

He was preceded in death by his father, David Hairston; his sister, Tonya James; his maternal grandmother, Madeline James; his great-aunt, Odessa Parrish; his aunt, Gwendolyn Tweedy; and his cousins, Edward Tweedy, Taria James, and Marcus Mills.

Eric leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Crystal Riddle Hairston; his sons, Eric Hairston, Jr., Tyreke Coleman, Iya’an Hairston, and Jahaad Hairston; his mother, Francine James; his sisters, Katrina Haught and Katherine James; his brother, Omar James; his nieces, Anya Haught (Sarah), Daeja Wade, and Khimani James; his nephews, Delante James (Brieona), Ian Haught, and Kam James; his great-niece, Kari James; his great-nephew, Eli James; his aunts, Celeste Jackson, Marilyn Felton, Karen James, and Carolyn Carter; along with a host of cousins, extended family members, and countless friends who loved him dearly.

Although our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the life, love, and legacy of Eric Hairston. His laughter, kindness, and unforgettable presence will live on in all who were blessed to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

To the Hairston family, we at D. D. Watson offer our most sincere sympathy and condolences. Our prayer continues to be that your abiding faith in God will lend to you a measure of comfort that will strengthen and sustain you during your time of sorrow.

It is during such times as these that we draw upon our faith, stand upon our scriptures, and rely upon our God. There is no question that in this and through this, God will keep you, comfort you, and sustain you. You and your family are forever in our prayers.