Community members will come together this month to honour the life and legacy of beloved local Adam Hardes, also known as “Mayfield Jesus”.
Known for his daily walks throughout the suburb in rain, hail or shine, he was a dearly-treasured figure for many.
Sadly, on Friday 11 July, he passed away from health complications at just 52 years of age.
Following word of his death, residents flocked to social media to share their support and admiration for the local icon.
Former support worker and friend Laura Jack was close with Adam at the time of his death.
“I met him six or seven years ago,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.
“I’ve had two kids in that time, but I kept on coming back to work with him after my maternity leave.
“So, we’ve known each other for quite a while.”
She described Adam as a “very sweet soul”.
“I have always said that he was one of my most appreciative clients,” Laura added.
“He was just so sweet and gentle.
“Adam never really wanted anything or asked for anything, but he was always really grateful and appreciative of the support that was offered to him.
“I always felt like he was a bit misunderstood at times, but in saying that a lot of people have come forward and said really nice things about him which is so lovely to hear.”
Growing up in Boolaroo and Wallsend, he called Mayfield home for more than a decade, quickly becoming known to the community for his gentle nature, kind spirit and love of coffee.
Laura said Adam, who struggled with schizophrenia, often walked along Maitland Road to cope with his mental illness.
As he continued his ventures along the main street, more people noticed him, eventually bestowing him with the nickname “Mayfield Jesus” or “Walking Jesus”, due to his resemblance of the religious figure.
According to Laura, he didn’t seem to be bothered by his newfound title.
“I suspect he was probably aware, but he was so easy going that I don’t think a lot of things bothered him,” she explained.
“He was just happy doing his own thing and just wanted his basic needs met.
“He was always happy if he was fed, had a coffee and a cigarette.”
Noticing the social media response following his death, Laura created a public event for all those who loved him to gather and honour his legacy.
“We saw how much the community were vocalising that he was going to be missed, and we just thought it would be a nice opportunity to remember him, get together and share stories,” she said.
“Even though I knew him for a long time, there’s a lot about him that I don’t know.
“So, I think it’ll be great to share stories with other people and find out a bit more.”
The event, posted to Facebook shortly after his passing, has already received nearly 300 responses from those wanting to attend.
Laura said they would also raise funds at the gathering to support individuals, like Adam, with severe and persistent mental health challenges.
The event will take place on Saturday 16 August from 11am to 3pm at the Royal Oak Hotel in Tighes Hill.
A Go Fund Me has also been created to support Adam’s family in covering funeral costs, which can be found here.
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