Ita H. Hardiman

Ita Hughes Hardiman, 90, of Trumbull, CT, passed away peacefully at her home on May 5, 2025, surrounded by family. Ita was born on June 5, 1934, and was the daughter of the late Henry and Margaret Hughes. Ita grew up in Cos Cob, Connecticut and lived her married life in Stamford, Connecticut.
Ita married her beloved husband, John Joseph Hardiman, on July 19, 1958, and they shared 53 wonderful years together up until his passing in 2011. Ita's greatest source of happiness was her family. She is survived by her daughters, Mary Jane Kovaleski of Fairfield, CT, and Nancy and her husband Daniel Kost of Newtown, CT. She was a proud and loving grandmother, affectionately known as "Nana," to her five grandchildren: Ellen Kovaleski and her fiancé, Jack Atchue; Kate Kovaleski; Jack Kovaleski; Maggie and her husband, Alec Beauchemin; and Ryan Kost.
Ita graduated from Sacred Heart Academy and later earned her nursing degree from the Hospital of Saint Raphael's School of Nursing, beginning a lifelong career of caring for others. Ita's life was centered on family and service. She worked as a nurse at Greenwich Hospital and St. Joseph's, later serving in occupational health at Stamford Industries, private duty nursing, and the Tandet Center. In addition to her work, Ita was an active volunteer, generously giving her time to Meals on Wheels, local soup kitchens, hospice care, and the Bennett Cancer Center. She also served on the board of Stamford Catholic High School, the St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary, and was a dedicated member of the St. Leo's Seniors group.
Ita was preceded in death by her husband, John, three infant children, sister-in-law Kathleen Sullivan, brother-in-law Jack Sullivan and her three siblings: Mary Perna, Henry Hughes, and Patricia Frey.
Ita was loved by all for her warmth, sharp humor, and approachable personality. She had a special talent for making everyone laugh. Even with her hearing difficulties, her attentiveness always shined. Her bright blue eyes reflected her calm and dedicated spirit. Ita was an avid reader but also enjoyed watching her Netflix series and staying connected on social media from her iPad. Her famous Irish soda bread recipe will be treasured for years to come, bringing joy to many. Ita's life stood as a beautiful example of faith, love, and incredible strength. Those who had the privilege of knowing Ita will miss her dearly.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 9th at 11:00 AM at St. Leo's Parish, 24 Roxbury Rd, Stamford, CT. Burial will follow at St John Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to RVNA Health Hospice, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877.
Arrangements are under the care of Thomas M. Gallagher Funeral Home 104 Myrtle Ave Stamford, CT (203)-359-9999. To leave online condolences, please visit www.gallagherfuneralhome.com