It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Billy Bruce Hardin, who departed this life on April 30, 2024. Born on December 20, 1941, in Reynoldsville, KY, to Virgil "Tar" and Mary Belle Sargent Hardin, Bill was their cherished only child and grew up deeply rooted in the communities of Bethel and Sharpsburg. His love for his native Bath County was evident throughout his life as he treasured his childhood memories and maintained many lifelong friendships from his school days at Sharpsburg.

He furthered his education at Morehead State University before enlisting in the Navy in 1963. A devout Christian, he accepted the Lord as a teenager and was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church in Mt. Sterling for over 50 years. Known for his unassuming nature and quick wit, Bill had a way of uplifting spirits with his warm personality, engaging everyone he met regardless of their walk of life.

Bill leaves behind his beloved wife of 58 years, Lucile Lee Hardin, and their daughter, Nancy Catherine Hardin Hall, along with her husband, Chris. He was a proud grandfather to three granddaughters: Catherine "Catie" Pinon (Julian), Allison Fisher (Chase), and Leah Hall. His great-granddaughter, Millie Pinon, was a special joy in his later years. Also mourning his loss are his nieces, nephews, friend and brother-in-law, William Wayne Gilvin (Norma), and  sister-in-law, Mary Peterson, all of whom he held dear. Bill cherished his family ties deeply, especially his connection with his cousins, who remained an integral part of his life until his final days.

Throughout his adult life, Bill was involved in various enterprises and was a familiar voice at local radio stations for over four decades. He was also an active member of several community organizations, including the Montgomery County Residential Association, the Montgomery County Historical Society, the Mt. Sterling Kiwanis Club, the Jaycees, and provided years of laughs in the annual Lions Club Follies, .

Services to celebrate Bill's life will take place on Saturday, May 4th at 11 AM at First Baptist Church, 925 Woodford Drive, Mt. Sterling, KY. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 3rd from 4 PM until 6 PM, also at the church.

Bill deeply valued his friendships, making it impossible to single out just a few for the role of honorary pallbearers. Therefore, we invite all who considered themselves a friend of Bill to join us at the visitation and share your cherished memories with us.

Bill's friendship was a cherished gift to many, and his legacy of kindness and community involvement will be long remembered by those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Bill had recently developed great concern for Molly Rader, a 13 year old with congenital handicaps and a condition known as HLH.  Molly is undergoing continuing treatment at Cincinnati Children's Hospital to survive. If you are so inclined, in lieu of flowers, the family has chosen this cause. Donations can be made to: The Molly Rader Trust Fund, Gateway Radio Works, 22 West Main Street, Mt Sterling, KY 40353.

Pallbearers will be Chris Erwin, Jeff Ray, Tom McMakin, Ray Robertson, Jeremy Peterson and Brandon Gilvin.