James William Hardrick

James William Hardrick, affectionately known as “Uncle James,” departed this life peacefully on April 30, 2026, at the age of 83.

James was born on April 13, 1943, in Charlotte, North Carolina, to the late Lorenzo Hardrick, Sr., and Dinah Hardrick. In 1971, he relocated to Dayton, Ohio, where he built a life rooted in hard work, family, faith, and community.

James was a skilled carpet installer and master carpenter who took great pride in his craft. Known for his strong work ethic and steady presence, he was respected by all who knew him. He was the kind of man who believed in providing for his family, working with his hands, and leading by example. His dedication to hard work left a lasting imprint on his children and family, many of whom carry the same discipline, resilience, and work ethic he modeled throughout his life.

A man of faith, James was baptized in the Baptist tradition and faithfully served as a former Deacon at Shiloh Baptist Church. He was deeply loved by his family and cherished by friends, neighbors, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He never missed a family gathering or function and was a steady and loving presence within the Hardrick family. His wisdom, strength, consistency, and quiet leadership made him a pillar to many who knew and loved him.

James was first married to Corrie Hardrick, and to that union were born Iwanda, James, Chauncey, Jeffrey, and Edmond. He was also blessed with sons William and Ahmad, born to Linda Glover, and daughter Shamika Cooper, born to Alisa Ponder. He later married Dora Hardrick, whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Lorenzo Hardrick Jr., Earnest Hardrick, Flodora Dunham, and Ruby Williams; grandsons, James D. Hardrick II and Marquiese Thompson; along with his beloved cousin, Ada Marie Walker.

James leaves to cherish his memory his children: William (Erika) Hardrick, Iwanda Hardrick, James Hardrick, Shamika Cooper, Ahmad Hardrick, Edmond (Catherine) Hardrick, Chauncey Hardrick, Jeffrey Hardrick, and James Demarel Hardrick; his beloved sister, Odessa Jackson; his beloved grandchildren: Jarrod, Jordan, Jaden, Asaiya, Amajany, Amare, Chase, Madison, Chauncey Jr., Jermaine, Jonquis, Ashley, Chaunterria, Jasmine, Quanisha, Loyalty, I’nesty, Leterius, Cordell, Jeniqua, and Wakenya; along with a host of loving relatives, extended family members, and dear friends.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing that James William Hardrick leaves behind a legacy of strength, craftsmanship, faith, love for family, and unwavering perseverance. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

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