Shirley A. Hardy

Shirley Ann Hardy age 86, of Holgate, died Tuesday afternoon, December 16, 2025 at the Laurels of Defiance. She was born to Alvine and Kathryn (Curtzwiller) Schwab in Holgate. She married Donald E. Hardy on November 27, 1959. Shirley loved her community. She was a Holgate Tiger ALL THE WAY! Her and Don would sit in the Tiger goal zone. Don would be the sideline coach with the guys, until Shirley said, set. She ruled over the guys and we knew it, bless her heart. Everyone know her as mom Hardy or just mom. She was also a true Indians and Browns fan. Shirley was true Holgate, she loved everybody and would help any child. She was a member of the Holgate United Methodist Church, a former member of the Holgate EMS and member of the Holgate Athletic Boosters. In 1980, she and Don were proud to donate the "Tiger" that hangs in the gymnasium to this day. Shirley loved the Buckeyes. She drove school bus for 31 years for Holgate and 4-County students. She loved riding motorcycle. She had her own 360 Honda. Her and Don rode all over the United States. They had two amazing trips to Sturgis, SD. She loved motorcycle life! She loved strong coffee (Frisch's for socializing) and Jack Daniels and Coke Cola. She loved strong drinks for strong women! Shirley was very loving of her grandchildren: Adrew, Jacob and Camron; and great grandchildren: Declan, Henry and Ozzy. She is also survived by her sons Don, Jr. "Skip" of Defiance and Arnie of Holgate. She was preceded in death by her husband Don, Sr., still born son, Ronald, Kathryn Porter, and siblings, Franklin Schwab and Mary DeCello.

A visitation will be held at Zachrich Family Funeral Home in Holgate from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Monday, December 22, 2025, allowing family and friends to gather in remembrance of this remarkable woman. There will be a celebration of Shirley's life and her profound impact on those who knew and loved her that evening at 7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Holgate Athletic Boosters or Henry County Joint Ambulance District.

As we remember Shirley, we hold her spirit close in our hearts. She was more than a cherished wife, mother, grandmother and friend; she was a beacon of love and unwavering commitment to her community. Her legacy will continue to inspire us all.