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Life story

" Jim Louis Hardwick, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who touched the lives of many, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2024, in Fredericksburg, VA, at the age of 90. Born on September 9, 1933, in Little Cake, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Lawrence and Myrt Hardwick.

Jim is survived by Billie Jean Hardwick, his beloved wife with whom he shared six decades of marriage,
and his two daughters and their families, Renee Sontheimer and her husband Glenn of Falls Church; and
Denise Gargano and her husband Paul of Fredericksburg. Jim also leaves behind two precious
grandchildren: Jennifer Louise Medsker (Gargano) and her husband Cody of Whidbey Island, WA; and
Nathaniel Louis Gargano, of Fredericksburg.

Jim grew up on the Hardwick farm, as his dad and granddad had done before him; farming and hard work were in his blood. He had a long career with the U.S. Government, where he carried with him the values instilled in him by his Kentucky roots – integrity, perseverance, and dedication. For example, Jim conducted an aerial photography mission that rescued three civilian flyers and a young boy whose aircraft crashed August 7, 1965, on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. For this mission, he was awarded the Department of Commerce Silver Medal for teamwork, initiative, and competency.

A devout Christian, Jim was a long-time member of St. Matthias United Methodist Church. In his free time, Jim enjoyed long walks, history, Bible study, college basketball, golf, home-cooked meals (especially sweets), and winning at Canasta :). . But most of all, Jim enjoyed spending quality time with his family and friends.

What truly defined Jim was his friendliness toward everyone he met. He had a warm smile and genuine interest in others, and his kindness will leave an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on April 6 at 12 p.m. at St. Matthias United Methodist Church, 426 Deacon Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22405. The family appreciates flowers or donations to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association in memory of Jim Louis Hardwick.
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