Rose Lee Hardi (Walther)

In loving memory, we reflect on the life of Rose Lee Hardi (Walther), born on January 12, 1933, in New Bern, Williamson County, Texas. To her beloved parents, Albertina Lange and Henry Walther. Rose Lee, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, departed this world on September 25, 2024, leaving behind a cherished legacy intertwined with laughter, love, and devotion. Rosie Lee was baptized on March 19, 1933, by Pastor Gus Spillat, and confirmed on December 8, 1948, by Pastor Paul Czeskus.

On December 11, 1949, Rose Lee was united in Holy Matrimony to Alvin Emil Hardi, and they were blessed with three sons, Ronnie, Mark, and Bryan. 

For 24 years, Rose Lee dedicated her days to the children of Manor Independent School District as a cafeteria cook, serving not just meals but also a warm smile. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond the school doors; for 15 years, she brought her talents to Elgin Myers, where she endeared herself to colleagues and patrons alike. All who crossed her path felt the impact of her unwavering kindness and vibrant energy.

Rose Lee found joy not only in her profession but also in the serenity of fishing and camping trips, along with precious family time. She had a green thumb and loved her garden. In her later years, her greatest delight was pouring love into her grandchildren, reveling in the role of the quintessential grandmother who always had a treat, a wintergreen lifesaver, hidden away and a story ready to share.

Her family, deeply connected across five generations, includes her three devoted sons: Ronnie Wayne Hardi Sr. and wife, Sandi; Mark Dale Hardi and wife, Terri; and Bryan Keith Hardi. Together with her ten grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, one brother, Wilbert Walther, nieces and nephews, and a host of cousins and friends, including the Saint Peter’s Lutheran Church family, they will carry her spirit forward, blossoming from the roots she lovingly nurtured.

Rose Lee was the best mom ever—a claim echoed through each generation that she touched. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alvin Emil Hardi, who left this earthly realm in 2005. Together for 56 years, they created a beautiful narrative of love and partnership that continues to inspire their family. Rose Lee Hardi is remembered not only as a devoted matriarch but also as an extraordinary individual whose love for family and life leaves an indelible mark on our hearts. Her legacy will forever bloom, much like a garden, bringing color and vitality to the lives she touched.

As we gather to honor Rose Lee’s remarkable journey, we invite friends and loved ones to pay their respects at Elgin Funeral Home on September 30, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Family and Friends will gather to Celebrate Rose Lee’s Life at Saint Peter's Lutheran Church of Elgin on Tuesday, October 1st at 10:00 AM with Pastor Sam Brannon presiding. Interment will follow at Elgin Cemetery.

Serving with Grace and Honor as Pallbearers are Kimberly Hardi, Ronnie Hardi, Jr., Jessica Buck, Jenni Stern, Bryan "B.K." Hardi, Jr., Madalyn Hardi, Brad Buck, and Mason Stern.