John Oliver Hardy, Jr., surrounded by loving family and friends, left this earthly home for his Heavenly home on Tuesday, February 14, 2017. He was born May 20th, 1923 to the late John Oliver Hardy, Sr., and Thelma Powell Hardy. Preceding him in death were his wife of sixty eight years, Armetha Vick Hardy, his brother, Morgan Hardy, his sister, Frances Hardy Griffin, and his infant brother Douglas Hardy.

He is survived by sons Wayne Hardy and wife Jonah Faye of Red Oak, Kent Hardy and Sue of Nashville, Joe Hardy and wife Phyllis of Nashville, and daughter Susan Hardy Holland and husband Dean of Nashville, as well as eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Besides being a devoted husband and father, J.O. served the Lord faithfully as a deacon, teacher, and trustee at Southside Baptist Church for over seventy years. Mr. Hardy was a Purple Heart recipient of World War II during his service in the European Theater.

The family wishes to thank both the staff at Brookdale Senior Living for providing compassionate care to Mr. Hardy for the last eighteen months, and Hospice of Nash General Hospital for their medical guidance and emotional support.

Visitation was held Friday, February 17 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Johnson Funerals and Cremations. The funeral service was led by the Rev. Tom Hall, Dr. Harry Fowler, and the Rev. C.J. Cauble, at Johnsons on February 18. Burial followed immediately at Rocky Mount Memorial Park in Dortches, NC.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Hardy's honor to Southside Baptist Church Building Fund, 4948 Carter Road, Elm City, North Carolina.

Paid obituary