George Albert Hardin

On Thursday, October 16, 2025, as the warm afternoon sunshine shone down across the mountains, a beloved husband, a wonderful daddy, and a cherished poppy passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by the love that defined his life. We give thanks for the extraordinary man he was- his kindness, his goodness, and his devotion to our family. We are thankful for his blessed life of 91 years. Our hearts are heavy and filled with great sadness, and we pray for peace. Now it is our honor to share his story with those who knew him, loved him, and proudly called him a friend.

Your Loving Mary, Children, and Grandchildren

George Albert Hardin was born on February 20, 1934, among the gentle hills of Livingston, Kentucky, to the late Marvin Talmadge and the late Ruby Lee Johnson Hardin. George grew up surrounded by the warmth of a loving family, and from an early age, his adventurous spirit and boundless curiosity were evident traits that would shape a life filled with knowledge, craftsmanship, and compassion. George seemed to know a little something about everything, and those who knew him often marveled at the depth and breadth of his wisdom.

With great pride and honor, George answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army. His time in service was not just a chapter in his life -it was a cornerstone that helped make him the man we all admired: strong, principled, and always caring about others.

George's hands were those of a true craftsman. During his career in the construction industry as a contractor, he left behind many projects of his legacy and of his fine work, dedication, and skill. George was a man who always took great pride in each project he was involved with- always giving his best and making certain that everything was perfect.

In 1983, after visiting Western North Carolina and falling in love with the majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, George and his beloved wife Mary made the heartfelt decision to settle in Haywood County. It was a life rooted in love, faith, and community, and they both became greatly cherished by their neighbors and multitude of friends. Their lives and marriage of over 50 years have been a true love story and an example and inspiration for others to follow.

George's appreciation of history and heritage found a perfect outlet in his work as an antique dealer. With owning several stores over the years, he had a gift for recognizing the soul in every vintage piece. He could glance at an item and recount its story, and he often repurposed many antiques, breathing life into forgotten treasures.

And then there were the cars- George's passion for antique automobiles was legendary. His collection was admired by everyone, not just for their rarity but for the special care George poured into each vehicle. He had recently purchased a rare vintage Nash, which was awaiting George as his next project to restore. These weren't just cars to George; they were reflections of his spirit.

But beyond all of his talents and accomplishments, George was a man of kindness. Soft-spoken and giving, he was always ready to lend a helping hand to others. In the words of his family, "George taught us through quiet example- the importance of compassion, forgiveness, and grace." These are lessons we shall forever carry with us, etched in our hearts.

To his family, George was everything. He was loved beyond words, and he loved each of his family with all his heart and soul. His absence leaves a space that can never be filled. As we remember George, we pray for comfort and healing for those who loved him. May the wonderful memories of his gentle and kind spirit, his heart-warming smile and laughter, and especially his unwavering love bring peace in the days ahead. He shall be missed each and every day.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson, Chad McCormick.

Left to cherish and honor his precious memory are his beloved wife of 53 years, Mary F. Hardin; sons, Terry Hardin of Evansville, IN, and Russell Roberts of Morganfield, Ky; daughters, Sheila Roberts Jimenez (Ray), Sherry H. McCormick Lanning of Salem, KY and Georgiann Hardin Adkins (Eulice, Jr.) of Canton; eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral services with military honors will be held at 3:30 pm Sunday, October 19, 2025, at East Fork Baptist Church. Reverend Mark Tice and Reverend Greg Cullen will be officiating. The family will be receiving friends at the church from 2:00 until 3:30 prior to the funeral service. Honored to be serving as pallbearers will be Aaron Green, Niel Hugo, Jared Green, Tyler McCart, Ross Roberts, Daishawn Curry, and Blaine Henson.

Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service is deeply honored to be caring for George and the Hardin family.