The Richmond News, Sept. 26, 2025

Billy Joe Hardwick, beloved husband, dad and grandpa, passed away Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, at age 95. For the last year and a half, he battled with dementia.

Billy was born Feb. 6, 1930, in Richmond, the son of John Huston and Beulah Isabelle (Bayne) Hardwick. He was the younger of two sons. His older brother was Gilbert Hardwick.

In November 1950, he was enlisted into the U.S. Army.

On Jan. 24, 1959, he married the love of his life, Kitty Ann Bollinger. Together, they enjoyed traveling with close friends Cecil and Betty Starcher, and Floyd and Shirley Judd.

In June 1964, they welcomed their first daughter, Tammy Jo Hardwick. In October 1970, they welcomed their second daughter, Lisa Katherine Hardwick.

At a young age, he owned his own milk route and later sold it to Curtis Proffitt. Billy Joe and Kitty Ann owned and operated Hardwick’s Drive-In, and Hardwick’s Small Engine Repair Shop.

Billy Joe had many other endeavors. He ended his career at Walmart at age 94.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother; and loving wife, Kitty Ann.

He is survived by his daughters, Tammy Clark (Chris Oyler) and Lisa (Steve) Rittmiller; and seven grandchildren, Ashley (Eric) Morgan, Ryan (Brad) Nelson, Daniel (Nicci) Clark, Heather Rodenberg, Tyler (Dominique) Clark, Brandon Rittmiller and Taylor (Colby) Gerber.

Other survivors include his 15 great-grandchildren: Jade Teichman, Madysyn Morgan, Kyler Morgan, Noah Nelson, Izaiah Nelson, Lynlee Morgan, Nolan Johnston, Olivia Morgan, Nellie Evans, Harper Clark, Ainsley Morgan, Blaire Evans, Bentley Gerber, Noelle Morgan and Riggs Gerber.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Shirkey Hospice. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services were scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Visitation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, at the funeral home. Burial was to be in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please share your memories of Billy Joe with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.