Donald Jean Hardy

Donald Jean Hardy, 89, of Franklin, North Carolina and a Michigan Native, passed peacefully at his home on October, 22, 2022 with his loving wife, Evelyn, of 62 years, by his side.

Born on February 7, 1933, in Malden, Missouri, he was the son of the late Henry Paul Hardy and Sarah (Preston) Hardy. He was the youngest of nine siblings who had preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Evelyn, three daughters, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War and was a proud patriot throughout his entire life. After his honorable discharge, June 9, 1956, from the U.S. Air Force, Don moved to Michigan where he began his career with Marathon Oil Company. In 1999, Don & Evelyn retired to Franklin, North Carolina.

During retirement Don enjoyed life with his family, golf, playing pinochle with his family and friends, word puzzles, solitaire, game shows, and news programs.  Don loved Dogs and the Detroit Tigers and the Detroit Red Wings.

Don is survived by his wife, Evelyn; daughters, Kim Divian (Jeff), Tammy Rehm (Roger) and Christie (Roy) Hardy. Also survived by four grandchildren, Jared Goemaere, Jordan (Alexia) Hawkins, Madison & Morgan Campbell. Two great grandchildren, Blake and Oliver Hawkins.

He loved his girls and his grandchildren very much. He had a special bond with each one.

There will be a celebration of life Saturday, October 29, 2022, at Victory Baptist Church, 278 Victory Church Road, Sylva, North Carolina 28779.  The family will receive friends from 1:00pm - 2:00pm one hour prior to the Christian military service. There will be a luncheon following the service location to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish to make a donation in Don’s memory, please make donations to Victory Christian School.

Bryant Grant Funeral Home is serving the Hardy Family.  Online condolences may be made at www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com.