Tom Hardy, 87, Orange

In loving memory of Tom Hardy, 87 of Orange, Texas, who passed away peacefully June 7, 2024, at Jefferson Skilled Nursing Home in Beaumont, Texas. A visitation will be held Thursday, June 13, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Tom will be laid to rest at Cushing Cemetery surrounded by his family. Born in Cushing, Texas on March 4, 1937, Tom was the middle son of Marcus and Juanita Hardy. He was raised in Cushing with his siblings and met his future wife while they were High School sweethearts. Tom was an extraordinary man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him. He left behind a legacy of love, hard work, and generosity. Tom was more than just an accomplished heavy equipment operator at DuPont during the bulk of his career; he was a devoted family man and provider to his wife and their two children. For over 67 years, he shared a deep and unwavering love with his wife, creating a bond that served as a source of inspiration for those around them. An avid outdoorsman and skilled hunter, Tom found solace and joy in nature. Whether he was navigating heavy equipment or exploring the outdoors, his adventurous spirit was contagious. His care and compassion extended to his cherished dogs, who were not just family pets but beloved companions. What set Tom apart was his ability to effortlessly connect with people. Described as someone who never met a stranger, he had a giant personality that made everyone feel welcome in his presence. Tom was known for his kind heart and willingness to lend a helping hand, embodying the true spirit of community. Throughout his life, Tom demonstrated tremendous resilience, a strong work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to those he cared about. His impact on the lives he touched will be remembered with fondness. His legacy will live on through the memories of his family and the countless individuals he helped along the way. As we say goodbye to Mr. Tommy Ray Hardy, who was known to everyone as 'Tom', let us celebrate the remarkable life he led and the enduring love he shared with his family. May his spirit continue to inspire us to be kind, generous, and compassionate towards one another. Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Marcus and Juanita Hardy, Cushing, Texas; Brother, Wayne Hardy, Cushing, Texas; Brother, Kenneth Hardy, Tacoma, Washington; Son, Thomas Mark Hardy, Rock Hill, South Carolina. Tom is survived by his loving wife, June Hardy of Orange, Texas; Daughter, Melanie McCoy of Orange, Texas; Brother, John Hardy and Family, Nacogdoches, Texas; Sister, Sandra Whittington and Family, Corrigan, Texas; Sister, Debbie Hardy and Family, Nacogdoches, Texas; Grandson, Tad Hardy and Family, Rock Hill, South Carolina; Granddaughter, Sarah Trotter and Family, Rock Hill, South Carolina; Granddaughter, Kellie Blessing and Family, San Antonio, Texas; Grandson, Matt McCoy, Dallas, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimer's Association at https://www.alz.org/