Colleen Johns Hardy

Colleen Johns Hardy, our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2023, in St. George, Utah at the age of 84. Born on July 2, 1938, in Salt Lake City, Utah, she was the red-haired daughter of Otto Ernest Johns and Margaret Elizabeth Johns. On December 15, 1956, she married the love of her life, Neil Hardy, in Salt Lake City, Utah. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple, further solidifying their eternal commitment to each other and their family. Together, Mom and Dad built a beautiful life and family over their 64 years of marriage. Mom and Dad were blessed with seven children, 22 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren: Brian (St. George, UT); Diane Empey (Ashley, Washington, UT); Brent (Geri, St. George, UT); Bruce (Stacy, Washington, UT); Bryce (Sandra, Rustburg, VA); Denise Crosier (John, Washington, UT); and Danelle, who preceded Mom in death, along with her husband Neil. Growing up in Salt Lake City, Mom cherished the deep bond she shared with her older brother Jack, who was not only her closest friend but someone she truly adored. She loved recounting their adventures together, and one of her favorite anecdotes involved a humorous episode between Jack and her future husband, our Dad. After Dad had come home from the army, he had grown a beard and mustache, which perhaps gave him a bit of a roguish appearance. One day, when Mom and Dad were sharing a playful, "flirtatious" moment in the backseat of a car at a church activity, Jack, fiercely protective of his sister, spotted them and promptly pulled Dad out of the car, believing the bearded stranger was being too forward with her. Despite their initial encounter, the two quickly bonded, and Jack had nothing but praise for Dad throughout the years. Mom also fondly recalled her time working at Walgreens Soda Fountain, where she would serve a young Thomas S. Monson his favorite Coke float. After Dad returned home from serving in the army in Germany, he proposed to Mom, and they began their journey together as husband and wife. Mom was always meticulous about her appearance and made sure that her children were impeccably groomed, setting an excellent example for each of us. Her love language was expressed through service, and she spent countless hours sewing clothes, baby blankets, and school dance dresses for her family. Mom also had a passion for cross stitching, creating beautiful, intricate pieces as gifts for family members and displaying her own handiwork on the walls of her home. She created the most magical Christmases with her beautiful decorations and attention to detail, ensuring each holiday season was perfect and truly memorable for us kids. Mom also made sure each of us had perfectly planned birthday parties, always leaving us feeling extra special and loved. She prepared outstanding meals, including the most delicious Sunday dinners that were a cherished family tradition. The smell of her homemade bread would welcome us as we walked through the door from school, creating a warm and lasting memory. Mom's exceptional preparation of Thanksgiving Day made the holiday genuinely special and memorable for everyone lucky enough to share. Her homemade pies, such as pumpkin, apple, cherry, pecan, banana cream, and coconut cream, were always perfect, adding just one more personal touch to the holidays. Mom stood by Dad's side, both personally and professionally, as they worked together in various businesses throughout their marriage. Their strong partnership began with a garage and gas station in LaVerkin and later expanded to include the Blackrock KOA Campground and convenience store, with Tropical Fiberglass Pools to follow. Mom played a crucial role in supporting Dad, her organizational skills and attention to detail proving instrumental in their success. She took charge of the bookkeeping for all their ventures. Together, they instilled in their children the value of a strong work ethic, and Mom was never afraid to learn new skills or embrace technology, using computers to keep up with their business and, of course, for her personal enjoyment. Beyond their professional endeavors, Mom's generous heart shone through in her actions. She would warmly welcome strangers and those less fortunate, who Dad would bring home from work, offering them a warm meal or a place to stay. This act of kindness not only demonstrated her compassionate nature but also served as an inspiring example to their children. Mom and Dad made the perfect decision to install a swimming pool in their backyard, creating an inviting space for their children and grandchildren to gather, bond, and make lasting memories. The pool became a focal point for countless pool parties, BBQs, and laughter-filled afternoons and evenings with family. Those precious moments spent splashing, playing, and enjoying each other's company helped our family grow closer together, and we will always cherish the memories of our time spent around that pool. Mom and Dad’s love was a true partnership, and it was evident in the way they worked together and supported each other throughout their lives. One of our most cherished and heartwarming memories is seeing Mom and Dad lay in bed, holding hands together. Dad's deep love for Mom was always apparent – he showed his love in the way he talked to her, how he cared for her, and by setting the example for his children of how to treat their mother. He always had tender emotions when talking about those he loved and admired. Mom must have been incredibly special to receive that kind of treatment from Dad. The beautiful family that they created together will live on forever, a testament to their love and devotion to each other. Mom's leadership and unwavering dedication were truly inspiring, and she humbly served without seeking the limelight or recognition. As a loyal and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, she served diligently in various callings, including as a loving Primary teacher and president, an encouraging Young Women's leader, and a compassionate Stake Relief Society President. Mom not only played an active role but also took full responsibility for organizing ward dinners, parties, dances, and movies, always ensuring they were executed flawlessly. Her commitment and attention to detail earned her the trust and admiration of those who knew her. If you wanted a job done right, you asked Mom! Mom and Dad cherished their time with their grandchildren, creating precious memories through sleepovers filled with every possible flavor of cold cereal and ice cream, and with Grandma making waffles in the morning. Mom would share stories from her childhood with her grandchildren, who cherished her soft cheeks for cuddling and kissing. She even helped them earn money by selling baked goods and snow cones. Mom is survived by her much adored brother, Jack (Candy), and was preceded in death by her husband Neil, infant daughter Danelle, parents Otto & Margaret Johns, and sisters Margaret Jarvis (Dave), Virginia Zumwalt (Jack), and Carolyn Clark. Mom, we will miss you more than we can ever begin to express. Our lives will forever be blessed because of you and your unconditional and selfless love and attention. Thank you for being the center of our family and for being the rock that held us together. We will always cherish the memories we made with you and hold them so very close to our hearts. Family and friends are invited to a viewing on Saturday, May 6, 2023, from 9:30-10:45 am at the LDS Chapel, 628 S. 3000 E. St. George, Utah. The funeral service will follow immediately at 11:00 am. Interment will be held at the LaVerkin City Cemetery. For family and friends unable to attend, the service can be watched online at: https://rebrand.ly/wf10th-ward Family and friends are also invited and encouraged to share their memories and tributes online at www.serenitystg.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Serenity Funeral Home

Colleen Johns Hardy

July 2, 1938 - April 22, 2023