Gary Lee Hardin

Gary Lee Hardin, age 85, of Canton, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was a devoted husband, father of two, and grandfather of three. He was born on May 7, 1937, in Clyde, Kansas, to Ralph and Florence (Funk) Hardin.

Gary was a 1955 graduate of Clyde High School, going on to study business administration at Kansas State University. Thereafter, he served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1962, being honorably discharged. He landed his first job as a claim’s adjustor for Liberty Mutual, which jump-started a career in the insurance industry for over 20 years.

In 1971, he met Doris Neeley at Liberty Mutual in Houston, Texas. They fell in love almost instantly and were lifelong partners. Gary and Doris remained in Houston, where they wed in 1972, going on to have two children, Thomas and Kimberly.

In 1984, he left the insurance industry to open a flower shop until 1994. He then went into business with his wife until retirement in 2002. Upon retirement, he and Doris were able to travel the globe, often taking his family with them.

Gary made people laugh up to the very end. All who met him loved his charm, funny sense of humor, and charismatic personality. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, providing them the life he felt they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world. Gary was unendingly proud of Thomas’ success in the Army and as a graduate of Southern New Hampshire University, Kimberly’s success as a graduate of Texas A&M, Project Manager, and mother of his three grandchildren, and Doris’ undoubted devotion. He always tried his absolute best to support them with everything they did.

Gary was also a master craftsman and could often be found working on carpentry projects during his time off. In 2005, he achieved his dream by constructing a woodshop to his specifications, where he spent a good part of his retired life. His passion was creating keepsake gifts for friends and family.

Gary was the most loving father, grandfather, and husband a family could ask for. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Warren and Robert, and sister Shirley. He is survived by his wife Doris, son and daughter-in-law Thomas and Angela Hardin, daughter and son-in-law Kimberly and Stan Bostik, and three grandchildren Ryan, Cody, and Kendall Bostik.

Per his wishes, no services will be held. In place of flowers, please consider donating in his name to the American Heart Association, Alzheimer’s Association, or the Macular Degeneration Association.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lloydjamesfuneralhome.com for the Hardin family.