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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Lillian Jay Hardwell. Lillian passed away at her home on Friday, October 11, 2024 at the age of 82. She was born on November 16, 1941 to the late Daniel Fore Jay and Lillie Leo Adams Jay in Newton County, MS.
Lillian was a dedicated, loving, and hardworking wife and mother and a shining example of faith and devotion. A devoted member of First Baptist Church of Braxton, she found strength in her faith and shared her love with everyone around her, always ready to lend a helping hand. Lillian was also a faithful member of the church choir and served as the church clerk for many years.
Lillian was a retired mail carrier for the US Postal Service. She also worked at Simpson Academy as a study hall supervisor, cafeteria manager, and cook. Her unbelievably strong work ethic and kindness could be seen in all she did. Those attributes left a lasting impression on family, colleagues, and customers alike.
Her greatest joys in life were her husband, children, and grandchildren, who brought her immense happiness and pride. She cherished every moment spent with them. These moments created beautiful memories that will remain forever in our hearts.
She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Johnny Hardwell; sons Kevin Hardwell (Karen) of Rome, GA, and Darin Hardwell (Jessica) of Pearl, MS; daughters Karen Klein (Lance) of Flora, MS, and Tracy Yates (Craig) of Brandon, MS; seven grandchildren, Hannah Hardwell, Madison Klein, Alli Hardwell, Aaron Hardwell, Bella Klein, Jonathan Hardwell, and Shelby Yates; sister, Rosalyn Elaine Starnes; and sisters-in-law Frances Jay, Kathryn Jay, and Becky McGehee.
Lillian was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel and Lillie Jay and brothers, William Joseph Jay and Daniel Fore Jay Jr.
We will miss her sweet smile, her comforting embrace, and her endless devotion to her family. A celebration of her life will be held on Monday, October 14, 2024 at Tutor Funeral Home in Mendenhall, MS where we will honor the incredible woman that she was and the profound impact she had on all of us. The visitation will be from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM with the service beginning at 2:00 PM in the chapel. Brother Dan Pardue will be officiating the service. Interment will follow at Braxton Cemetery.
Arrangements are entrusted with Tutor Funeral Home of Mendenhall.
