Ronald Harold Hardy

With a heart full of love and a spirit that brightened the lives of many, Ronald “Ron” Harold Hardy of Beavercreek, Ohio, will be celebrated by family and friends after his passing on August 20, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on July 13, 1940, in Atlanta, Georgia, Ron was the cherished son of Luther and Nellie Hardy, who instilled in him the values of hard work and dedication from a young age.

After completing high school, Ron went on to Georgia Tech University, where he earned his engineering degree and later achieved a Ph.D. in engineering— a testament to his intellect and perseverance. In 1965, he married the love of his life, Irene Bell, embarking on a beautiful journey that would last over six decades.

For 20 years, Ron served his country proudly as an officer in the Air Force, retiring with the esteemed rank of Major from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. His commitment to service didn't stop there; he continued to contribute to the aerospace sector as a contract engineer, sharing his expertise and passion with the next generation.

Ron and Irene welcomed their three sons Michael, Timothy, and Mark into the world, fostering a close-knit family filled with love. Their summers were often spent creating lasting memories on family vacations to Florida and gathering together for Sunday services at First Baptist Church in Kettering, where Ron actively served as a deacon and contributed to Gideon International by distributing Bibles. Back in Georgia, he cherished the days of picking peaches and making homemade peach ice cream, sharing sweet moments with his loved ones.

Outside of his professional life, Ron found joy in car repairs, home improvement projects, and diving into the world of computer science experimentation. A devoted reader, he found escape in fiction novels by authors like Tom Clancy and Ian Fleming.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Nellie Hardy, his brother Charles Hardy, sister-in-law Lervine Hardy, and beloved son Timmothy Hardy. He leaves behind his soulmate Irene, his sister Connie, sons Michael (Jaimee) Hardy and Mark (Amber) Hardy, grandchildren Alexander, Abigail, and Danessa, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In honor of Ron's remarkable life and legacy, a celebration of his life will be held at First Baptist Church in Kettering (3939 Swigart Rd, Dayton, OH 45440) on Thursday, August 28, 2025. Visitation will take place from 10 AM to 11 AM, followed by a joyful funeral service at 11 AM. Ron will find his final resting place at Valley View Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Bethany Lutheran Village and The Patterson for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Dayton or First Baptist Kettering Church—two special places that are close to Ron's heart.

Join us as we gather to celebrate the life of an extraordinary man who touched so many, sharing stories, laughter, and love in his honor.