John Flynn Hardy

Commander John F. Hardy, passed away May 9, 2015. The Naval Veteran of three wars (WWII, Korea, Vietnam), was born in Waycross, Georgia on November 22, 1922, the second of two children. He graduated from Waycross High School in 1940 followed by Georgia Tech University B.S., Emory University, Harvard University(NSCS) and eventually Naval Post Graduate School. After graduating Supply Corps School, he was qualified for “Supply Corps Duties Afloat and Ashore”. The next years were spent supporting our Pacific Fleet in WWII on the USS Suwannee(CVE-27). Here he fought bravely as his ship was hit by kamikaze, with the first deliberate suicides attempts of the war. While supporting the occupation of Japan, he witnessed the effects of Nagasaki first hand. He served his country in 17 unique destinations at sea and abroad including Guam, Iceland, Morocco and D.C. It is in D.C. where he met and married the love of his life, Betty Marie Brissette. They had one daughter Cheryl. They all embraced the Navy life, and together supported seven changes in duty locations around the world before retiring in 1974 from his final role as Supply Officer for the Naval Training Center of Orlando.

He usually declined to elaborate, but was known as “Judge Hardy” to everyone. A title believed earned in years at college. After retirement he enjoyed a daily round of golf and spending time with his family. He especially appreciated time with his granddaughter Jordan, which was the real joy in his later years.

Preceded by: Betty Marie Hardy, his loving wife of 41 years; his parents, Alma Flynn Hardy and Harold Kennedy Hardy

Survived by: His daughter, Cheryl Mae Hardy; Granddaughter Jordan Elizabeth Hardy; and his brother, Harold Hardy; along with many other nieces, nephews, extended family, and many, many loving friends.

A flag will be flown over the U.S. Capital Building this week in his honor.

Burial Services will be held at 11am, on Thursday, May 14th, at Oaklawn Cemetery 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, Fl. 32207. Ph. 904-737-7171. A memorial reception for friends and family will immediately follow. Arrangements under the care of Hardage Giddens, The Oaklawn Chapel (904) 737-7171.