Julia Hardy

Julia Hardy was born Julia Morgan on August 19, 1930, in Fordyce, Arkansas.

She was the third of 13 children born to Rosie and Robert Morgan.

Julia was a graduate of Fordyce High School. She and her family relocated to the Bay Area in1956 where she continued her education at Laney College where she studied hat making and culinary arts.

Julia met and married Charles Hardy in 1957, he proceeded her in death in 2000. To this union three children were born: Charles Hardy, Jr. Colia Malinda Hardy and Charlyne Junette Hardy.

Julia was a long-time member of Paradise Baptist Church, where she enjoyed attending Sunday School and Bible Study.

Julia worked for the Oakland Public School District and retired after 25 years. During that time, she held the position of Food Service Manager. She was very active in her union and was appointed Union Steward. She was instrumental in negotiating fair wages and better working conditions.

Julia was very active in her community. She served as the Treasurer of the Columbian Gardens Park Center. She also oversaw the monthly neighborhood food giveaway which benefited many underprivileged families.

She was a long-time member of the East Oakland Senior Center, where she served on the board of directors as chairperson. She was eventually appointed as Advisory Board Leader. As a result, she received many awards and certificates of appreciation.

Some of the activities that she enjoyed at the Senior Center were teaching quilting, leading the group in exercises, line dancing, being a member of the book club, participating in the yearly Black History Month Program and taking art classes.

Julia was a major advocate for mental health and wellbeing and was always sharing information which enriched the lives of others.

Outside of the Senior Center, Julia loved sewing, joke telling, making porcelain dolls and passing down her knitting skills to her grandchildren. And she even participated in a talent show as Hula Hooper!

Julia enjoyed sharing how she "rubbed elbows" with many well-known people such as, actor Danny Glover, Reverend Al Sharpton, entertainer Ben Vereen and former Oakland Mayor Libby Schaffe and current Mayor Barbera Lee.

Julia Is survived by her brother Elmer Morgan, children, Charles Hardy, Jr., Colia Malinda Washington, Charlyne Junette Hardy, Grandchildren, David Washington III, Devine Hardy, Julicia Washington, Jade Morales and Greatgrandchildren, Jaylon Davis, Malik Washington, DaYani Washinton and Jasmine Morales.

And those who will forever hold and have cherished memories of Julia.