Clarence Eldon Hardy, age 82, died on Sunday, August 27, 2023, at the National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born on Monday, May 26, 1941, to Clarence Bradford and Mildred Allene Cunningham Hardy in Lockney, Texas.
Clarence was a private man known for his honesty and industrious nature. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as golfing, fishing, woodworking, sport shooting, and as a young man, playing fastpitch softball. Clarence was greatly loved by his grandchildren and known as “Papa Rascal.” He believed in teaching his loved ones the importance of nurturing family bonds and had a humorous love-hate relationship with stray animals, further illustrating his kindhearted nature.
One of Clarence’s most significant achievements was his service during the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Army. His bravery and dedication were hallmarks of his character, both on the battlefield and in his later life. Following his military service, Clarence married Joy Bradley, the love of his life, and soon welcomed their son, Lanny, into the world.
Clarence spent 16 years working for Coca-Cola in Plainview, Texas. In 1985, they moved to Mena, Arkansas, where he began a second career raising chickens for Tyson. They were members of the Hatfield Church of Christ. His tireless work ethic was evident in everything he did, from his professional responsibilities to his recreational pursuits.
Clarence Hardy will always be remembered as a man of honesty, respect, and unwavering devotion. We celebrate his well-lived life and honor his enduring legacy.
Clarence is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 42 years, Joy Hardy; and one sister, Janice Aylesworth.
Clarence is survived by his wife Ragenia Hardy of Mena, Arkansas; his son and daughter-in-law, Lanny and Amanda Hardy of Noble, Oklahoma; one sister and brother-in-law, Allene and Donald Willis of Marietta, Oklahoma; two grandchildren, Kayla and her husband, Derek Quillin of Chickasha, Oklahoma and Landon Hardy of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; one great-grandson, Wenston Quillin of Chickasha, Oklahoma; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 1, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mena, Arkansas, with Brother Kevin Randolph officiating. Interment will follow the service at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Mena, Arkansas, under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home. A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 31, 2023, from 3-5 PM at the Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.
Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com
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