James Kenneth "Kenny" Hardy, 88, of Troy, MO, passed away on October 14, 2023. He was born on September 1, 1935 in Troy, MO to James Riley and Opal Lee (Howell) Hardy, baptized in the Baptist faith. Kenny attended the local schools, along with his brother, Leland and graduated from Silex High School in 1953.  During high school, he enjoyed playing basketball and baseball. After graduation, he began working at Silex Banking Company and farming with his father in the evenings. Kenny met the love of his life, Kathleen Fleming through a neighbor.  Their love story began when Kenny would bring Kate home from High School and meet her for lunch dates while working at the bank.   They were united in marriage on November 17, 1956 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Millwood, MO. To this union were born four beautiful girls, Kathy, Susan, Sally and Stephanie. Kenny was a hard worker and had a brilliant mind.  He worked his way up to Vice-President and board member at Silex Banking Company and retired after 45years of service.  He served on the Silex School Board, Silex Booster Club and Lincoln County Farmers Mutual Insurance Board for many years. While his day job was banking, his passion was farming and raising cattle.  After retirement, Kenny and Kate moved to Troy and enjoyed many years of traveling, golfing, bowling, fishing and throwing horseshoes.  Kenny loved watching the St. Louis Cardinals and is described as a quiet, selfless, "gentle" man, devoted father, grandfather and husband.  He could always be counted on to help out anyone in need.

His favorite times were spent with his beloved wife of 66 years, Kathleen "Kate" Hardy of Troy, MO;  three daughters,:Susan Lee Hardy Mills of Ashland, MO, Sally Lynn (Don) Hakenewerth of Flint Hill, MO and Stephanie LeAnne (Darren) Williams of Troy, MO; grandchildren, Brandon (Madeline) Mills of Dallas, TX and their son Graydon and one-on-the way; Morgan (Mason) Hakenewerth York of Wentzville, MO and their two children, Leo and Ellie; Landon Mills of Troy, MO; Nathan and Nolan Hakenewerth of Flint Hill, MO; Mackenzie Williams of Troy, MO; Molly Hakenewerth of Flint Hill, MO and Karsen Williams of Troy, MO; his brother, Leland (Barbara) Hardy of Rushville, IL, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Kenny was preceded in death by an infant brother, Billy Hardy, his daughter, Kathy Lynn Hardy and his parents.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., at the McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1304 Boone Street, Troy, MO, 63379, 636-528-8244 .

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, 10:00 a.m., also at the McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory in Troy, MO. Pastor Bill Roberts to officiate.

Interment to follow in the St. Alphonsus Cemetery, Millwood, MO. Father Chuck Tichachek to officiate.
Memorials - St. Alphonsus Cemetery or Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital c /o funeral home.

Family and Friends may sign the online guest book @ www.mccoyblossomfh.com