Hardy Alfred Thrower Sr.

Born on June 3, 1932, in Wellington, Texas to the late Hardy H. and Isabel Thrower, Hardy and his three brothers and two sisters spent their early years in Wellington before the family relocated to Amarillo, Texas in 1944.

He graduated from Carver High School in Amarillo as part of the Class of 1951. Later that year, Hardy enrolled at Arkansas AM&N College (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) on a full four-year football scholarship.

It was there that he met the love of his life, Bobbie Jean Sutton. shortly after Hardy earned his Bachelor of Science degree, the two were married on October 30, 1955, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Little Rock Arkansas.

In early 1956, Hardy was drafted into the U.S. Navy, where he served honorably for two years. Upon returning home, he began a civilian career delivering cloth diapers for Babyland before securing a long-term position as a machinist with Convair, a division of General Dynamics. He remained with the company for over 38 years, retiring in 1997. Hardy was also a successful entrepreneur, owning and operating Thrower Realty, where he bought and sold properties between 1969 and 1992.

Deeply committed to supporting education and his alma mater. In 2000 Hardy along with the assistance of Wanda Baskins founded the San Diego Chapter of the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association and served as co-president of the group. Under his leadership the chapter provided financial assistance to students in need. He also spearheaded a program that award jackets and medallions to student athletes with high GPAs during the 2006-2007 academic year. In honor of his beloved wife of 33 years, Hardy established the Bobbie Sutton Thrower Endowment Award in 2001 at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The award continues to benefit students majoring in English, Speech and Drama.

In 2006, Hardy was inducted into the Lions Kings Wall of Honor, which recognizes individuals who played a pivotal role in supporting the UAPB athletic program.

A longtime member of St. Stephens Church of God in Christ in San Diego, Hardy was a devoted Christian and humanitarian. He generously gave to his church and extended support those in need throughout his life.

Hardy A. Thrower Sr. leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory. Sons: Hardy A. Thrower Jr. (Susan) of Sparks, Nevada and Eric L. Thrower (Rosa) of San Diego, California Grandchildren: Natasha R Boone, Hardy A. Thrower III, Sofia L. Davis Thrower, Vanessa Guerrero, Marissa Gardner, Great Grandkids: Anthony I Boone, Kyree S Thrower, Amelia Cochran, Victoria Guerrero, Camelia Guerrero, Theo Davis: and a host of relatives and dear friends.

A visitation will be held at Cypress View Mausoleum, Mortuary and Crematory, 3953 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA 92113, US, on April 3, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm, followed by a funeral service at the same location from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. A committal service will take place there on April 3, 2026, at 2:30 pm.