Larry Wayne Hardin Sr.

Larry Wayne Hardin Sr. was born on October 23, 1951, in Fort Worth, Texas, to the late Ned Hardin Sr. and Gloria Faye Mills. Raised in the Riverside community, Larry’s early years helped shape the strong, determined, and resilient man he would become. At a young age, he was baptized at Mount Gilead Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. C.C. Harper, marking the beginning of his lifelong spiritual journey.

Larry was no stranger to hard work. At just 12 years old, he began working at country clubs—often mistaken for being older due to his height and presence. He and his brother, Ned Jr., took pride in working to support their mother—motivated in part by their big appetites and a shared love for dressing sharp in designer clothes.

A proud graduate of I.M. Terrell High School, Class of 1969, Larry went on to build a respected career in the country club industry. His work not only reflected his professionalism and character but also placed him in the presence of notable figures such as Lucille Ball, John Wayne, Charlie Pride, and Lee Trevino. Yet, no matter who he encountered, Larry remained grounded—always the same authentic man.

Driven by a desire to grow, Larry attended night school at the Elkins Institute of Photography, earning his diploma in Professional Photography in 1974—a reflection of both his creativity and determination.

On September 28, 1975, Larry married the love of his life, Wanda Jean Morris. Their union was a beautiful testament to love, loyalty, and commitment, spanning over 50 years. Together, they built a strong family foundation and were blessed with three children and four cherished grandsons who brought him great pride and joy.

Larry had a passion for dogs, especially German Shepherds, and took great pride in raising and training them. One of his beloved shepherds, “Prince,” earned an honorable mention in the qualifying rounds of the Canine Frisbee Disc World Championship “Ashley Whippet” contest—an extraordinary achievement for a breed not typically known for such competitions.

His faith deepened over time, and through the influence of his wife and the teaching of Pastor Robert L. Sample, Emeritus, Larry became a member of Holy Tabernacle Church of God in Christ in 1999, where he gave his life fully to Christ.

Larry was a man of strength, presence, and unwavering honesty. He stood firm in his beliefs, spoke with conviction, and never hesitated to tell it like it was—always real, always direct. Those who knew him valued his truthfulness, his bold spirit, and the way he carried himself.

Larry found joy in life’s simple pleasures—especially fishing. Whether traveling across Texas with his childhood best friend, Monsieur “Chilly” Fretwell, or sharing peaceful moments by the water with his wife, fishing was more than a pastime—it was his place of peace, reflection, and quiet connection.

A devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys, Larry remained loyal through every season, standing by his team with unwavering pride. He also had a deep love for music across many genres, but one song that held a special place in his heart was “Never Would Have Made It.” He would sing it with passion and joy, often bringing smiles and laughter as he channeled his inner Bishop Marvin Sapp.

Larry was also an entrepreneur at heart, owning several businesses throughout his life, including the Catfish Hutt, a beloved fast-food restaurant on the south side of Fort Worth.

On April 28, 2026, Larry peacefully fulfilled his earthly assignment and entered into eternal rest.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ned Hardin Sr. and Gloria Faye Mills, and a cherished niece, Nedra Hardin.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Wanda Jean Hardin; his children, LaWanda Jeanette Nunn West (Richard), Larry Wayne Hardin Jr., and LaShanna Joy Sapp (Darnell); his beloved grandchildren, Kennedy Paul McFarland, Kase LaWayne Stapleton, Jaylon DeWayne, and Jace Wayne Hardin; his siblings, Ned Hardin Jr. and Michael Whitt (Vickie); his cherished nieces, Carla Walton (James) and Tremisha Hardin; along with a host of loving cousins, aunts, extended family members, and dear friends.

Though his voice may be still, the love he gave, the truths he spoke, and the life he lived will echo in our hearts forever.