Larry Hardin

Born in Augusta, Georgia, Larry grew up in Mobile, Alabama, where he first discovered music and began learning saxophone, flute, and clarinet through his high school jazz band. After honing his talents, he pursued a career as a “hippie” musician, becoming a founding member of Backwater, a Birmingham jazz-rock group active in the 1970s.

In Backwater pieces like “Alto Ego” and “A Song for Don,” his sweeping saxophone lines soar through groovy, soulful arrangements that reflect his creativity as both a musician and songwriter. Known to friends and peers as “Wooly,” his years performing led him to share the stage with artists including B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, and Emmylou Harris, among others. Throughout his life, Larry remained active in music, performing solo or with groups such as Ghostriders, the Headliners, Real to Reel, and Domino.

Larry earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from the University of South Alabama and went on to build a career in computer software. He worked for several companies, including SCI, where he contributed to defense and aerospace projects, before later leading customer support teams at Mentor Graphics and GE Transportation. His curiosity and patience translated naturally into these roles, where he became known for his ability to solve problems, supporting both his team and the people he served with care and humor.

Beyond his professional life, Larry was a dedicated husband and father whose steady presence and guidance grounded his family. He never missed a school game or an opportunity to be there for those he loved and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Larry was happiest watching movies and Westerns and cheering on his Georgia Bulldogs. He loved sharing conversation over a round of golf or a plate of Gulf Coast seafood. Beneath the waters, he found a quiet peace while scuba diving. No matter what, Larry was always present, offering an easy joke while carrying a quick wit that made him a joy to be around.

Whether holding a saxophone or the attention of everyone in the room, Larry had a rare gift for finding the right note. And as vast as the oceans he explored, Larry held deep emotions and loved even more deeply. He will be missed by his family and by the many friends, musicians, and colleagues whose lives he touched.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children; Evan (Shannon) Hardin of Marietta, Georgia and Tyler (Elizabeth) Hardin of Canton, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur Lindsey and Vernell Gilliland Hardin, and his sister, Linda Carolyn Hardin.

A celebration of Larry’s life will take place on June 20, 2026 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home, 3155 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL 36606. A private inurnment will take place at Catahoula Missionary Baptist Church in Kiln, Mississippi, where Larry will be laid to rest beside his father-in-law and mother-in-law, at his request.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in Larry’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Ronald McDonald House.