Jan 17, 2025
Barbara L. Hardy, 86, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of the South Dayton community, passed away peacefully on Jan. 15, 2025, in North East, Pennsylvania. Born on Aug. 23, 1938, in Jamestown, New York, Barbara was a beacon of light and love to all who knew her.
Predeceased by her parents, David and Margaret (Rynalski) Dorman, her devoted husband, Lawrence C. Hardy, brothers David and Thomas Dorman, and grandson, Miguel Hardy, Barbara’s legacy of kindness and family values lives on through her large and loving family. She is survived by her children, John (Jennifer) Hardy, Timothy (Lisa) Hardy, Lynn (Paul) Bowers, and Gary (Janet) Hardy. Barbara also leaves behind a profound legacy through her grandchildren, Jeremy, Stefanie, Rachel, Jay, Jessica, Nathaniel, Jocelyn, Haleigha, Noah, and Isaac, as well as her great-grandchildren, Coen and Eleanor.
A proud graduate of Pine Valley Central School, Barbara furthered her passion for education by earning a Master’s in Education from SUNY Fredonia. She dedicated 23 years to shaping young minds at Pine Valley Central Schools before retiring in 2001. Barbara’s early years were marked by her love for overseas travel, which broadened her perspective and deepened her appreciation for life’s vast experiences.
Barbara’s contributions to her community were immeasurable. She was very active in the South Dayton Free Methodist Church and demonstrated her commitment to service through her involvement with the South Dayton Meal on Wheels, food pantry, the Salvation Army, and the South Dayton Fire Department. Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through a lifetime of selfless acts and community care.
In her quieter moments, Barbara relished the time spent with her grandchildren, taking care in fostering each precious relationship. She found joy in reading and the challenge of word puzzles, which kept her mind sharp and spirit engaged.
All who had the pleasure of knowing Barbara will remember her strength of character, her unwavering faith, and tireless dedication to her family and community. She was a woman of remarkable warmth, embodying a spirit of generosity that will continue to inspire. Barbara L. Hardy’s memory will be treasured, and her bright light will be dearly missed.
Relatives and friends may visit DiStasio Funeral Home Inc. 478 Route 83 at Balcom Corners South Dayton Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 from 2 to 4 PM and 7 to 9 PM where a funeral service will be held Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025 at 1 PM.
Interment will be in Cottage Cemetery, Dayton, NY
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the South Dayton Free Methodist Church 327 Pine St., South Dayton, NY and the South Dayton Volunteer Fire Company 34 Maple St., South Dayton, NY
Online condolences may be made at www.distasiofuneralhome.com.
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