Dennis Hardy, age 87, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for his family and community. Born on October 28, 1938, in Camden, New Jersey, he was the beloved son of the late Frank and Dorothy (Becker) Hardy.
Dennis was a proud graduate of Camden Catholic High School, Class of 1957, where he served as class president and star of the basketball team. He spent over 35 years living in Sicklerville, before later moving to Williamstown, New Jersey.
Dennis dedicated more than 35 years of service as an electrician at RCA in Camden. He truly loved his work but chose early retirement in 1994. Retirement, however, did not last long. Shortly afterward, he began working as the maintenance custodian at St. Charles Borromeo in Sicklerville, where he faithfully served for 25 years. Being part of the St. Charles Borromeo community brought him immense joy, and the role proved to be the perfect transition into a new and meaningful chapter of his life.
Dennis’ greatest pride and most cherished memories were rooted in being a father and grandfather and most recently, great-grandfather. He treasured time spent with his family and especially enjoyed gathering with his friends from St. Charles Borromeo, often celebrating together at local restaurants. His family’s annual vacations to Ocean City, New Jersey held a special place in his heart. So deep was his love for those beach trips that when paramedics carried him from the shore house after a fall, he reassured everyone with his trademark spirit, saying, “I’ll be right back.”
Making others happy was Dennis’ greatest joy. He was delighted in seeing smiles on the faces of those around him. One of his sweetest traditions was buying roses for his women friends (lovingly called “Poppy’s Angels” by his family) on their birthdays—an act that brought him as much happiness as it did them. He enjoyed horse racing and trips to the casinos, especially when he could share those outings with his wife, Lillian. Dennis also had a deep love for the water. Whether swimming, dining by the shore, or quietly sitting on a deck watching the sunrise over the ocean, is where he found peace and contentment.
Dennis was also a proud veteran of the United States Army.
Dennis will forever be remembered as a master storyteller. A kind and caring man whose warmth, generosity, and unwavering positivity touched countless lives.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Beloved husband of the late Lillian Hardy (nee Gambogi). He is survived by daughters Susan Tracy, Karen Schaefer (Brian), Colleen Schummer (Michael), and his cherished grandchildren Ryan Schaefer (Wilmarie), Morgan Tannoia (Joseph), Kevin Tracy, Max Schummer, Zach Schummer and great-granddaughter, Shea Tannoia. Dear brother of John Hardy (Antionette), the late Frank Hardy, the late Michael Hardy and the late Steven Hardy. Loved by many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to attend his viewing on Feb 20, 2026, 9:15 – 10:45am at St Charles Borromeo RC Church, 176 Stagecoach Rd, Sicklerville, NJ 08081. Mass of Christian Burial 11:00am at St Charles Borromeo RC Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dennis’s memory may be made to St. Charles Borromeo at the address above or the St. Vincent DePaul Society.
“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”