A beautiful landscape in Raleigh symbolizing the legacy left by a real estate icon.
Raleigh is mourning the passing of Zack Hampton Bacon Jr., a revered figure in the real estate community, who died at age 95. Known as the ‘Godfather of Residential Real Estate,’ Bacon made significant contributions to the Triangle area through his influential real estate agency, Bacon & Co. His legacy is marked by strong values, family connections, and a love for nature. A memorial service will honor his profound impact on the community he served so well.
Raleigh, North Carolina, is mourning the loss of a cherished figure in the real estate community, Zack Hampton Bacon Jr., who passed away peacefully on February 28, 2024, at his sons’ home in Orton Plantation, located just south of Wilmington. At the ripe age of 95, Zack left behind a legacy that would inspire countless individuals in the bustling Triangle area.
Bacon was born on July 5, 1928, to Zack H. Bacon Sr. and Bettine Parker Bacon. Growing up in Raleigh, he became a well-known figure in the area. After attending Needham Broughton High School, he went on to study at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating in 1951. During his college years, he was an active member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, forming connections that would last a lifetime.
His journey into real estate kicked off in Jacksonville, NC, where he started selling homes for North Hills Inc., a company founded by Ed Richards. In 1953, he made his way back to Raleigh, partnering with Cliff Cameron, who was a prominent figure as the former chairman of First Union Corp., to launch his own real estate firm. By 1959, Zack took a significant step forward by establishing Bacon & Co., which grew to become the largest real estate agency in the Triangle during the vibrant decades of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.
Under his guidance, Bacon & Co. boasted a remarkable team of 170 agents before it sold to Merrill Lynch Realty Associates in 1984. His industry influence didn’t cease there, as he repurchased a significant portion of the company following its acquisition by Prudential in 1989. By the time he retired in 1996, Zack had transformed Prudential Carolinas Realty into a powerhouse with over 1,000 agents and a robust network of 35 branch offices.
The Triangle real estate community often referred to him as the ‘Godfather of Residential Real Estate’, a title that speaks volumes about his impact. His calm demeanor and honest approach resonated with many in the field. He built lasting relationships, all while instilling values like frugality, responsibility, and kindness within his family, especially in his three sons: Zack III, Louis, and Bart.
Zack was more than just a real estate mogul; he was a vibrant soul who thrived on human connection and interaction. His personal charm, engaging storytelling, and sense of humor made him a beloved figure. Outside of work, he embraced the great outdoors, indulging in hobbies like fly fishing, duck hunting, saltwater fishing, and boating. These passions reflected his zest for life and adventure.
In 1951, Zack married Ann Moore Bacon, raising three sons together. After Ann’s passing, he married Blanche Williamson Bacon in 1980, blending two families in the process. Outliving both wives, he also had a younger sister, Betty Bikle, who predeceased him. Today, Zack is survived by not just his three sons but also a large family that includes 13 grandchildren, six step-grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and two step-children.
A dedicated parishioner of Christ Church in Raleigh for many years, Zack served as the head of the vestry and earned recognition for his service. A memorial service is set to take place on March 23, 2024, at Christ Church, followed by a reception, allowing family and friends to celebrate his remarkable life. Zack will be interred in a private ceremony at the Christ Church Memorial Garden as a final resting place for a man who contributed so much to the community.
Though he has departed, the values and lessons he imparted will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him, as they pay tribute to a true pillar of the Raleigh real estate world. Instead of flowers, the family encourages contributions to Christ Church in his honor, ensuring that Zack’s legacy of service continues.
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