Gloria J. Hardy

Glory Jean Hardy, Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, Cousin, and Friend known as the life of the party entered this world on February 22, 1945 to proud parents Rosie Lee Lacey and Hurie Hetterson in South Bend, Indiana. Gloria graduated from South Bend Central High School and would continue her studies in the medical field. She found purpose in helping people, turning that gift into a career as a Certified Nursing Aid. In 1963 Gloria and Donald E. Hardy married and they shared many memories together. Later in life Gloria enjoyed her time at headstart working over twenty years where she would retired.       

Dancing, painting, ceramics cooking and photography are just a few of the ways she expressed herself and inspired people. Mom was known for spreading joy, laughter and memories. She was the protector of her family, keeping us safe, providing and teaching us life lessons.  

Those who knew Gloria remember her creativity, which showed up in thoughtful ways. She brightened rooms, her infectious laugh lightened moods, turning an ordinary moment into something special. Her playful spirit and gentle humor made her a delight to be around.

Gloria touched many lives over the course of her 80 years, leaving behind a legacy of loving Children: Terrance Michael (Regina) Hardy of South Bend, Timothy Maurice (L'Wanda) Hardy of Indianapolis, and Melissa Marlette Shempert Fennessee whom she affectionately called Missy of South Bend. She will be missed by her loving family: Lutisha "Peaches" Moss, Lena Simpson, Hurie Brown (Audrea Brown), Tyler Fennessee, Dante Bryce Hardy, Terrance Marsh, DaShaun Maurice Hardy, Torreay Fennessee, Todd Hardy, Tige Fennessee Jr., only granddaughter Elissa Fennessee (Minnie), Elias Fennessee, Montie Lee Anderson, Demond Anderson, Desmond Mondale Anderson; Nieces and nephew: Latonya Groves, Latoya Groves, Robert Cook (Robbie), Nakia Lacey and a host of cousins, family and friends. 7 great grandchildren one great granddaughter named after her Valentina Gloria Fennessee of Arizona

On Christmas Day December 25, 2025 the lord wrapped his arms around Gloria and gifted her Eternal life and rest.  She is now reunited with her mother and father, and siblings: Terry and Carl Lacey and her partner in life: James Earl Shempert.     

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Laymen Chapel CME Church, 303 S. Kenmore St., South Bend, Indiana, with a viewing one-hour prior. Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the life of Gloria Hardy. Special thanks to Morningview Assisted Living staff, Lena Simpson and Kiara Wickliffe and all the caregivers who took such great care our mother. Arrangements are entrusted to www.boydandsonfuneralhome.com where condolences maybe shared.

Saturday 

January 10, 2026

Viewing 10AM 

Service 11AM 

Laymen Chapel CME Church

Burial: Mt. Pleasant Cemetery 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gloria J. Hardy, please visit our floral store.