Leroy Hardwell, Sr.

Leroy Hardwell, Sr., entered eternal rest on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren.

Born Jan. 10, 1943, to Kelly Hardwell, Sr., and Janie Jenkins Hardwell, Leroy’s life was marked by quiet strength, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family and community. He was first united in holy matrimony to the late Betty Lou Flowers Hardwell. From this blessed union, five children were born. Later in life, he united in marriage with Vickie Velicia Hardwell, and together they welcomed two children. Prior to this union, Leroy was also blessed with two children from a previous relationship. He was preceded in death by one loving daughter, Tina Hardwell Rivers, and one cherished grandson, Christopher Lewis; and nine siblings.

Leroy was a skilled craftsman and took great pride in his work as a master carpenter. For over 50 years, he poured his heart and hands into his craft, building and repairing with precision and care. His love for carpentry went beyond just a trade — it was a reflection of his patience, dedication, and ability to create beauty and function with his own two hands. Whether working on homes, furniture or community projects, Leroy’s work left a lasting impression and touched many lives.

At age 74, Leroy took a meaningful step in his spiritual journey, and was baptized at Bright Morning Star Baptist Church by the Rev. Allen Hall. He faithfully served at the church until his health began to decline. A celebration of his life was held at the church on April 26, 2025.

Leroy leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Vickie Velicia Hardwell and his children: Gerald (La’Quencia) Hardwell of Sumter, South Carolina; Marcus Hardwell of Winnfield, Louisiana; Joshua (Jasmine) Randle of Dallas, Texas; Leroy (Joelnada) Hardwell, Jr., of Birmingham, Alabama; Damion (Lauren) Hardwell of Winnfield, Louisiana; Kimberly (Ammon) Lewis of Spotsylvania, Virginia; Shelia (Alvin) Byrd of Jackson, Mississippi and Lashana (Semyon) Randle of Dallas, Texas.

He is also survived by two siblings — Jonie (Jan) Hardwell of Pineville, Louisiana, and Fannie Mae Dixon of St. Louis, Missouri — and special niece

Katherine (Victor)

Brown of Houston,

Texas.