Jimmie Franklin Hardy

Affectionately known as “Diamond Jim,” a native of Cottonwood, AL, current resident of Orange Beach, AL and also a long time resident of Jackson, AL, passed away to his heavenly Father, Wednesday, June 24, 2015.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Hardy and sister, Carolyn Hardy Coskrey. Survivors include his devoted wife of 51 years, Peggy McInnis Hardy, favorite and only child, Jeff, and special grandson, Dylan, all of Orange Beach; his loving mother, Lula Hardy Outlaw of Foley, AL and siblings, Eleanor (Johnnie) McClellan of Foley, AL; Gail (Bob) Holcomb of Mooresville, IN; Eddy (Mary) Hardy, Panama City, FL, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim was a star football player for the Cottonwood Bears in the late 50’s and remained an avid fan for the “game.” (Roll Tide!) A gifted player sought by college football recruiters, he elected to become a veteran of the U.S. Army. Following his entrepreneurial spirit, he established a shoe business legacy to include Diamond Jim Shoes in Jackson, AL and SandDollar Shoes and Lifestyles, located in lower Alabama and Jackson, MS. A passionate and generous man, he was well loved by his family and always willing to help others.