Joseph Grant Hardin

Joseph Grant Hardin, a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away on December 23, 2023, at the age of 77. He leaves behind a legacy of family, love, and laughter.

Joe was born on May 1, 1946, in Russellville, Arkansas, to Jo Ann Keathley Hardin and Hubert (Hugh) Grant Hardin. He graduated from Arlington Heights High School in 1964 and joined the US Army in 1968. Joe was deployed to Vietnam in September 1970, serving as a 1st Lieutenant helicopter pilot and earned the promotion to Captain while there. Throughout his service, he earned numerous honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star.

Following his military service, Joe returned home and resumed his education at the University of Texas at Arlington where he pledged the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. Joe earned a degree in accounting and began his career at Arthur Andersen. Later, he ventured into the aerospace industry, ultimately retiring as President of REFA International in Arlington.

Joe was preceded in death by his father Hugh Hardin. He is survived by his mother Jo Ann Hardin and wife of 29 years Diane Martin Hardin. He also leaves behind daughter Courtney Hardin Hart (husband Jason) grandchildren Collin Hart and Chloe Hart, and Diane’s daughters Meagan Fearon (husband Israel) and Hilary Forrester (husband Mike); grandchildren Stella Fearon, Cash Forrester and Boone Forrester. A larger-than-life presence for his five grandchildren, Joe left them with memories to cherish.

Joe will be remembered for his love of family and friends and uncanny ability to keep the room filled with laughter, no matter the audience or circumstance.

A committal service to celebrate Joe’s life will be held on January 4, 2024, at 11:15 am at the Dallas/Fort Worth National Cemetery where he will be laid to rest with military honors.

Memorials: Tunnel to Towers Foundation (click here to donate now) or the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Haven for Elephants & Rhinos (click here to donate now).