Darrell Ray Hardy

Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven Darrell Ray Hardy, 71, of Southaven, MS, passed away to his Eternal Home on October 18, 2025, in Southaven, MS. He was born in Trenton, AR, to John Carl and Grace Edmonds Hardy. Darrell Hardy, a devoted family man, respected riverboat captain, and lifelong outdoorsman, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was a man of quiet strength, steady hands, and a generous heart, whose legacy will live on in the lives he touched. Born with a deep love for the outdoors, Darrell found joy in the simple pleasures of life—early mornings spent duck hunting, peaceful days fishing for crappie, and crisp autumns in the deer woods. These moments were not just hobbies for Darrell—they were a way of life, a connection to nature, and often, treasured time spent with family and friends. Darrell began his career on the river as a humble deckhand and through hard work, grit, and determination, rose to become a respected towboat captain. He was known not only for his leadership and skill on the water, but for the care he showed his crew. Darrell believed in fairness, hard work, and always looking out for the next man, values he lived by both on and off the job. A man of many talents, Darrell taught himself how to play guitar and passed that love of music down to his grandchildren, patiently guiding them through chords and songs just as he guided so many through life. He was a steady provider, always putting his family first, and never shying away from hard work to make sure they were taken care of. Forty-seven years ago, Darrell met the love of his life, Galen, on a blind date, which blossomed into a lifetime of love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. Together they built a home filled with warmth, music, and the laughter of children and grandchildren. Darrell will be remembered for his strong hands, kind heart, and the way he led by example. He was a man who earned respect not by demanding it, but by giving it—through compassion, hard work, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. He leaves behind a family who adored him, a legacy of love and integrity, and memories that will forever echo through the woods, the water, and the strum of a guitar string. He will be deeply missed. Mr. Hardy is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Galen Hardy of Southaven, MS; his two sons, Jason W. (Pamela) Hardy of Southaven and Justin C. (Jessica) Hardy of Memphis, TN; his daughter, Lori (James) Long of Hernando, MS; his siblings, Melvin Hardy of Benton, AR, Phillip Hardy of Helena, AR, Deena Tanksley of Hot Springs, AR, Kathy Hardy of Arlington, TN; Brian Hardy and John Keith Hardy both of Hot Springs; seven beloved grandchildren; five and a half Great Grandchildren; many friends, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Carl and Grace Edmonds Hardy; his brother, John Carl Hardy, Jr.; and his sister, Carla Eloise Hardy. A celebration of life visitation will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., at Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven (626 Star Landing Road, East, Southaven, MS). A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m., also at Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven. Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven has charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, you may send memorial contributions to the American Lung Society. Expressions of condolences may be left on his Tribute Wall at www.colemanfuneralhomesh.com.

Darrell Ray Hardy

October 13, 1954 - October 18, 2025

Explore Obituaries &
Upcoming Services