Mary Elizabeth Hardy

Mary Beth Hardy passed away July 26, 2023 at her home with her beloved husband, Sid, by her side. A devoted Christian, Mary Beth’s life reflected her love of God throughout her life and she shared this love with her family.

Mary Beth was born on November 2, 1938 in Lawton, Oklahoma. She was the daughter of Noel and Willie Ray and the oldest sister to Judy. Mary Beth and Judy had a special relationship that would continue throughout their lives. They were the best of friends who raised their children together and called each other daily.

Mary Beth and her husband had a love that was immeasurable. They met early in their lives while attending school in Lawton. She invited him to her 14th birthday party and from that moment they were always together. They married at the age of 17, and had 2 sons, John Jr. and Michael, to complete their family. They were married for 67 years.

Mary Beth’s journey as a devoted wife and mother also included a work career that spanned over 60 years. She was a secretary in public education and later, a business owner and restauranteur. She began her secretarial career at Lawton HS and the University of Oklahoma. After her family moved to Bethany, OK, she then worked for Putnam City Schools for 19 years until her retirement. Towards the end of her secretarial career, she and her husband opened a gift shop, named after their first grandchild, Allisha’s Gift Shop. They expanded the business with her love for servicing others and cooking with the opening of Allisha’s Tearoom. Their success led to catering special events, expansions, and their greatest business venture at the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. It was here that they managed their restaurant, Dining on Persimmon Hill. Both Mary Beth and Sid loved working together and investing in others until fully retiring in 2016.

Mary Beth will be remembered for the two most important things in her life, God and family. She dedicated everything in her life to both. When not working, she and Sid spent their time with family taking vacations and making special memories with their children, grandchildren, and extended family. She will always be remembered for her smile, laughter, and the joy that she brought to everyone through her devotion to God and family.

Mary Beth was preceded in death by her wonderful son, Michael Hardy, her sister Judy Outlaw, and her parents, Noel and Willie Ray.

She is survived by her husband, Sid Hardy, son John Hardy Jr. (Terrie, who was like a daughter to her), grandchildren, Allisha Miller (Rene) and Sidney “Trey” Hardy III (Angela). She also leaves behind 6 great-grandchildren, CJ, Carly, Cole, Joey, Jacob, and Judy.

Gravesides services will be 10am Monday, July 31, 2023 at Bethany Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.billmerrittfuneralservice.com for the Hardy family.