The family of James Henry Hardy announces his passing on August 31, 2025. Jim was born on August 14, 1928, in Victoria, Mississippi, and later lived in New Madrid, Missouri. He was the son of Charles Barnett Hardy Jr. and Mary Etta Strickland Hardy.

Jim served honorably in the United States Marine Corps for thirty years, retiring with distinction as a Master Gunnery Sergeant (MGySgt). During his career, Jim served in the Korean War and was awarded the Air Medal for Achievement in Aerial Flight, along with several other honors. He was also deployed to Vietnam early in the conflict, completing three tours as a Flight Engineer with VMGR Squadrons 152, 252, and 352. His dedication and professional capabilities earned him multiple awards, including the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and several Meritorious Masts. "Devotion to duty beyond those normally required" was a hallmark of his time in the Marines.

Jim began a second career with Lockheed. Along with his beloved wife, Kathryn, and their daughter, Kim, they embarked on a life of adventure that took them to Morocco, Zaire, and Cambridge, England. Wherever they lived, they created a home filled with laughter and love. Throughout every challenge, Jim led with optimism, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his family, who were his compass, guiding his every decision.

Jim was a passionate athlete. During his service, he played on the Marine softball and golf teams wherever he was stationed. In his later years, he took great pride in teaching his granddaughter how to catch and play golf in the backyard of the family home. He was a lifelong Cardinals fan and never missed an opportunity to cheer for his favorite team.

In retirement, Jim embraced his days on the golf course, remaining a scratch golfer well into his 70s. He tended his flower beds, welcomed birds into his backyard, fought with the squirrels, and enjoyed spirited rounds of poker with friends.

He was an exceptional man, characterized by honesty and a steadfast commitment to his principles. He was also kind, humorous, loyal, and believed that one should never put off until tomorrow what can be done today. He lived his life with intention and generosity. His absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Kim Hardy McHorris; son-in-law, William Henry McHorris III; granddaughter, Olivia McHorris; nieces, Judy Dremann and Monta Whittington; nephew, Larry Ledford; and sisters-in-law, Sylvia Gurley and Charlotte Jackson. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Kathryn Jackson Hardy; brothers, Tom Hardy, Jack Hardy, and George Hardy; sisters, Bedelia Ledford and Alice Tuttle; stepbrothers, Paul Lyles, Eugene Lyles, Robert Lyles, and Archie Lyles; and stepsister, Lucille Briggs.

A graveside service will be held at Northridge Woodhaven Cemetery in Millington on September 8th at 2:00 PM.