William Helm Hardin

William "Billy" Helm Hardin October 27, 1940 – August 9, 2025
William "Billy" Helm Hardin, 84, a lifelong resident of Duncan, Mississippi, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior on August 9, 2025. Born October 27, 1940, at the family's Magnolia Hill home, Billy lived his entire life in that beloved house - a steadfast symbol of his roots, his values, and his love for community.
Billy graduated from Shelby High School, where he unexpectedly became quarterback his senior year - "by default," he liked to say - because "nobody else wanted it." That season's single tie became his proud "undefeated record," a story he told often with a smile. A talented drummer in a high school rock-and-roll band, he never let us forget that he cut a record at Sun Records (recording studio) in Memphis - a memory he carried with delight for the rest of his life.
He began his college years at Mississippi State University and later transferred to the University of Mississippi, where he was a proud Sigma Chi at both schools. Following graduation, Billy returned home to farm alongside his father at Gum Pond Farms, dedicating himself to the land, his family, and his neighbors.
While serving in the Mississippi National Guard, Billy met the love of his life, Toni Carol Malvezzi. They married, shared 57 years together, and were blessed with one son, William Helm Hardin Jr. The Malvezzi family embraced Billy as their own, cherishing his famous crab boils that brought everyone together in good fellowship.
Faith anchored every chapter of Billy's life. A devoted Christian, he served as an elder at Oakhurst Baptist Church in Clarksdale, where his kindness, humility, and generosity were a steady encouragement to others. He also served for many years on the Coahoma Electric Power Association Board, working tirelessly to help his community thrive.
Billy is survived by his son, William Helm Hardin Jr., of Miami Beach, FL; sisters-in-law Jeanella Malvezzi Mathis (Jimmy) of San Carlos, MX; Lulu Malvezzi Maness (Steve) of Jackson, MS; Perian Malvezzi Stribling (Scott) of Clarksdale, MS; and brother-in-law Guy Malvezzi (Laura) of Duncan, MS. He is also survived by brother-in-law David Grabensteda of Cartersville, GA; nephew Dan Grabensteda (Moreland, GA, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Toni Malvezzi Hardin; his parents, William Frank Hardin and Barbara Louise Smith Hardin; and his sister, Linda Hardin Grabensteden.
Visitation will be held at Meredith-Nowell Funeral Home in Clarksdale, Mississippi, on August 14, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a graveside service at Shelby Cemetery in Shelby, MS at 11:00am on Friday August 15, 2025. Meredith Nowell Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Forgotten Children's Ministries, P.O. Box 36399, Birmingham, AL 35236, or to the charity of your choice in Billy's name.