Michael Ezell Hardy

Michael was the second-born child of six to Walter Allen Hardy, Sr. and Ella Giles Hardy. He was born on March 7, 1956, in Dinwiddie County, Virginia, and was called to the loving arms of Jesus on April 11, 2026, after a brief illness.

Michael, or “Mike,” as he was affectionately known, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was marked by love, compassion, and an unwavering faith in God. His passing has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived—and for the lasting impact he made on everyone he encountered.

Michael’s educational journey began in Dinwiddie County, where he graduated from Dinwiddie County High School as a member of the Class of 1975. He went on to further his education in Richmond, Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in 1979. From an early age, Michael displayed an extraordinary gift for art, which he nurtured and developed throughout his life. He was especially skilled in pen and ink, but also created remarkable works in charcoal, watercolor, and oil.

Following his graduation, Michael began a long and dedicated career with the former Kmart Corporation, where he served faithfully for over 27 years. Starting as a Department Manager, he was later promoted to Assistant Store Manager and Operations Manager, serving in multiple locations across Virginia and Maryland. In later years, he continued his strong work ethic as a Home Improvement Specialist and handyman.

In 1979, Michael met Tamara Williams, the love of his life, while both were attending VCU. They were married in 1982 and together raised two wonderful children, Jordan Elisha Hardy and Michaela Faith Hardy. Michael was a devoted husband, loving father, and committed family man.

Michael found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing whenever the opportunity arose, sharing countless memorable moments with his fishing buddies—times filled with laughter, fellowship, and the ongoing pursuit of catching “the big one.” He also enjoyed gardening, sports, and especially reading.

For over 37 years, Michael was a faithful member of Manna Christian Fellowship Church (MCF), serving from 1986 until 2025. He served as an usher, was ordained as a deacon and elder by Bishop Wellington Boone and later ordained as Senior Elder and appointed Assistant Pastor in 2013 by Bishop Marvin S. Mason and Pastor Kate Mason.

Michael served in multiple ministries including men’s ministry, outreach, and married couples ministry alongside his wife. He possessed a true servant’s heart—willing to preach, teach, pray, or humbly serve in any capacity needed.

From early 2025 through 2026, he worked tirelessly to assist with the transition of the church to Speaking Spirit Ministries (SSM), supporting both MCF and Apostle Fred Wyatt and the SSM Varina Campus.

Michael will always be remembered for his warm smile, laughter, and wit. Like his mother, he never met a stranger and loved people deeply. 

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Ella Hardy; brothers, Walter A. Hardy, Jr. and Wayne Hardy; and children, Joshua and Kendrick Josiah Hardy.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 43½ years, Tamara D. Hardy; his children, Jordan Elisha Hardy and Michaela Faith Hardy; siblings, Franklin Hardy, Vergie Freeman (Theo), and Angela Hardy; and a host of extended family and friends.

Viewing:

Joseph Jenkins Jr. Funeral Home, Friday, April 24, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Funeral Service:

Speaking Spirit Ministries – Varina Campus, Saturday, April 25, 2026, 11:00a.m

Online condolences are available at www.jenkinsjr.com.