Willie J. Hardy

ALBANY, NY – Willie J. Hardy, 71, of Albany, died peacefully on Thursday, July 24, 2008, surrounded by his loving family, after a long illness. Born on April 12, 1937 in Montgomery, AL, he was the son of the late Willie J. Hardy, Sr. and Carrie Lawhorn. Willie served his country in the U.S. Army from 1956 through 1958. He worked in plant management at the University at Albany for 23 years until he retired in 1988. An avid fisherman, Willie loved sports, traveling and brought a smile to everyone he met. Willie is survived by his loving and devoted wife Madelon and their 22 year union of beautiful, precious and wonderful memories. He is also survived by his children: Kelvin, Michael, Willie III, Kenneth, Valerie and Carolyn; his stepchildren, Sylvester (Jeanette) Ryals and Debra (Don-Lee) Grayson. Also surviving are a host of grandchildren including Kierra Hardy, Emilio Astacio and Tameka Parker; nieces and nephews including Beatrice Ryals and John Bonar and a host of other friends and relatives including Helen Ryals, Jannie Campbell, Della Walker and Louis and Frances Keys. The family wishes to acknowledge the kindness of the staff of the 5th floor CCU at St. Peter's Hospital (especially Michelle), and the hospice staff at St. Peter's Hospital (especially Joanne) and the outpouring of support from numerous friends. A private memorial service will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's Hospital CCU, 315 South Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208 or Community Hospice of Albany, 445 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205 in memory of Willie J. Hardy.