Allen Ray Hardin

Allen Ray Hardin, 90, passed away peacefully at his residence on April 1, 2026 with his loving family by his side.

He was born in Cherokee County on April 12, 1935 to the late Otis and Maudie Hardin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ellen Hardin; daughter, Becky Hardin; sister, Thelma Cochran; and brother, Lee Hardin.

Al was an avid gardener who loved to work in his yard. His flowers won flower of the month and he received the yard of the year multiple times from the City of Gastonia. He also enjoyed picking the guitar and singing with his wife, Mary. Most of all he loved his family and always kept them straight. He leaves many happy memories to be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his sons, Steve Hardin, James Hardin (Paige), and Steve Hardin, Jr. (Christina); and his great-grandchildren, Caleb Hardin, Nathan Hardin, Jacob Hardin, John Hardin, James M. Hardin, David Hardin (Dana), and Destiny Hardin.

Family and friends will gather for visitation from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Monday, April 6, 2026 at Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow the next day, Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 1:00 pm with Pastor Tony Phillips officiating. Burial will follow at Gaston Memorial Park in the Willow Section.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com