On Sunday, July 28, 2024, Harry Hardwick (Pop), 76, passed away peacefully at home, in the arms of his beloved wife, Pat, and surrounded by his loving family.
Harry was born on May 14, 1948, in Carrolton, Illinois, to the late Floyd and Evelyn Hardwick (Anderson). He grew up with two late brothers, Francis (Bud) Hardwick and Lyndell Hardwick, and a late sister, Welma Kitsmiller, who remained close to him throughout his life. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968 and served during the Vietnam War, where he received several military awards and recognitions for his sacrifice, courage, and dedication.
As a distinguished veteran, he always held the memories of his wartime companions close to his heart. To commemorate their legacy, he wrote a novel published in 2002 called “March of the Skeleton Men”, which was inspired by his own wartime experiences and the bravery of his brothers. Harry was grateful for the opportunity to share his story and pay tribute to them.
In 1974, he was honorably discharged and returned home, where he met his wife and love of his life, Leah (Pat) Hardwick. They married on December 23, 1978, and shared 46 wonderful years of marriage. Their love was the kind that only comes once in a lifetime. They were inseparable from the moment they met and stayed that way until the end. They faced every challenge and every joy together, with unwavering support and unconditional love. They were each other’s best friend, soulmate, and partner in crime. They treasured every moment they had together and never took each other for granted. They were the epitome of true love and an inspiration to many.
He is survived by seven of his children: David Hardwick, Jennifer Schultz, Joanne Prather (Paul), Patricia Antwine, Robert Hardwick (Mary), Christine Hardwick, and Miranda Hernandez. He was preceded by his loving daughter, Denise. He was also a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, who lovingly called him Papa. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Patsy Hardwick, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was a devoted husband and father, who worked hard to provide for his family. He was a truck driver for over 42 years and had many stories from his years of travel. He had a soft spot for animals and a passion for spoiling them rotten. He loved his fur babies: Herman, Roxanne, Cheryl-Anne, Buster, Angel, Dusty, Cory, and Corky. He also loved tinkering down at his shop restoring old cars and tractors.
Harry was a man of strong opinion and would be quick to tell you his thoughts, but despite his gruff exterior, he was an endearing person that you couldn’t help but love. He loved with all his heart and soul and would do anything for his family and friends. He was fiercely loyal and protective. He was a man of honor and integrity, who lived by his values and principles.
He did not want the fuss and fanfare of a funeral service. He wanted his life to be celebrated in a simple and personal way. To honor his wishes, there will be a private memorial for the immediate family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, a charity that Harry supported and admired.
The family would like to thank the staff of Western Tennessee Hospice Care and Arrington Funeral Directors for their compassion and care during Harry’s final days.
Harry will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He was a hero, a father, a husband, and a friend. He left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His legacy will live on through his loved ones, who cherish his memory and honor his values. He was a source of inspiration and strength for his family and friends, and he taught them how to live with courage, loyalty, and love. He will never be forgotten.
Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 W. University Pkwy. Jackson, TN 38305, 731.668.1111, www.arringtonfuneraldirectors.com
