Paul Hardison

Paul Hardison, age 92, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 18, 1933, in Kirkmansville, Kentucky, to John Miller and Annie Mae (Blankenship) Hardison, Paul lived a life defined by devotion, humility, hard work, and unwavering love for his family.

Paul was a devoted and loving husband, a fantastic father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and a man of quiet strength and grace. He was the beloved husband of Phyllis Hardison, the love of his life and partner in all things. Together they built a marriage rooted in loyalty, respect, and deep affection-a love story that began while Paul was stationed in Colorado Springs during his service in the United States Army. On weekends, he traveled to Pueblo for dances, where he first saw Phyllis. Paul often said that the moment he laid eyes on her, he knew she would be the woman he would marry-and she was.

Paul graduated from high school before being drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served as a drill sergeant. Though he never pursued formal college education, Paul was highly skilled in the trades and known throughout his life as a true "Mr. Fix-It." There was little he couldn't repair, and he approached every project with patience, care, and pride. His sons learned countless lessons simply by watching him work-lessons not just about tools and repairs, but about perseverance, problem-solving, and doing a job the right way.

After marrying Phyllis, Paul moved to Indiana, where he built both a career and a home grounded in strong family values. He worked several jobs before beginning a long and dedicated career with Western Electric, which later became Indiana Bell and eventually AT&T, from which he retired. Never one to sit still, Paul went on to work at St. Joseph Hospital, retiring once again after twelve more years of service.

Family was always Paul's greatest joy. He treasured cookouts where everyone ate until their bellies were full, followed by card games that stretched late into the night. Those evenings-full of laughter, stories, and togetherness-became treasured family traditions. He loved nothing more than being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends. Paul had a special fondness for dogs, took immense pride in his immaculate lawn, and found peace and satisfaction in gardening.

Paul was present for every milestone that mattered. He was there for graduations, sporting events, weddings, career achievements, promotions, and the birth of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Choosing a single favorite memory was impossible, because Paul was simply always there. Steady. Dependable. Supportive. Whether offering advice-wanted or not-or standing quietly in the background, his presence was a constant source of strength.

Paul was the epitome of a Southern gentleman: honest, trustworthy, gentle, generous, and deeply caring. He rarely showed anger, was always willing to help where help was needed, never asked for anything in return, and lived his life with integrity and grace. Family always came first. He was a man of his word who never took the easy way out.

Most family trips were spent visiting loved ones in Kentucky or Colorado, reinforcing the importance Paul placed on staying connected to family and roots. Those travels, like so much of his life, were centered on love and togetherness.

Paul would want to be remembered as a loving family man, someone you could count on, a man who worked hard, lived honestly, and showed up for the people he loved. Above all else, he was deeply loved-and he will be profoundly missed.
I love you. Thank you for everything. Our lives are better because you were always there.

Memorial contributions may be made in Paul's honor to Ascent Hospice (Hospice of St. Joseph County), South Bend, Indiana.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife.

Paul was a dedicated father to his sons, Kevin (Tami) Hardison and Allen (Michelle) Hardison, always present, always supportive. He was a cherished grandfather to Valerie (Adam) Carroll, Paul Hardison (Danielle), Steffanie Hardison (Jessie Roberts), Jacob Hardison (Meredith Siade), and Bryan Hardison. His legacy lives on through his great-grandchildren: Kendall Ramirez, Candence, Natalie, Lilliana, Avery Lemon, Blake Carroll, and Oliver Roberts. He is also survived by his sister, Linnie Davis, along with many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know him.

A graveside service will take place on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Riverview Cemetery, 2300 Portage Ave, South Bend, IN 46616, at 11am.

To leave a message for the family, please go to Chapelhillmemorial.com

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Paul Hardison, please click here to visit our sympathy store.

Memorial Donation