Donna J. Hardy's Obituary
Donna Jean Hardy, 89, passed away on August 1, 2026. Born in Livonia, Michigan, Donna made Orlando, Florida her home for the last 50 years. Earlier in life she worked in banking, but her true calling was as a devoted stay-at-home mother.
Donna never knew a stranger. A simple trip to the grocery store could take hours, because she always found someone new to talk to — and by the end of the conversation, they were a friend. The same was true at restaurants, hospitals, anywhere she went: she would stop at tables to admire a baby, greet a pet, or sit with someone who was disabled or alone. She genuinely cared about everyone she met, and people always walked away feeling loved. More than anything, Donna wanted the people she met to know the Jesus she loved so deeply.
Donna's love for her husband, Damon, was the stuff of legends. They were rarely apart from each other's side — always holding hands, praying together, and praying for others. For decades they were faithful members of First Orlando, where they spent countless hours writing and sending cards to those in their home group. Donna and Damon often said they hoped to go together, and in the end, they very nearly got their wish — passing away just three days apart.
Donna is survived by her daughters, Terrie (Brad), Carolyn (Gregg), Sharon (David), and Shirley (Brian); 8 grandchildren;10 great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Kathleen Richardson; and her many beloved nieces and nephews.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Clark Albert and Mabel (Betty) Elizabeth Richardson; her sister, Betty McRuer, and brother-in-law, Al; her brother, Lawrence Richardson; her daughter, Joyce Hardy; and her husband, Damon Quilla Hardy, just three days earlier.
A joint celebration of life for Donna and Damon will be held in Orlando in early September. Details to follow.
Donna will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
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