Maria E. (Marks) Hardy

Maria Elaine Hardy, 82, of Union, Kentucky, formerly of Patriot, Indiana, passed away July 1, 2026 at Boonepsring Nursing Facility. Maria was born on September 7, 1943 in Buffalo, New York, a daughter of Henry C. Marks and Mildred A. (Michalski) Marks. Maria completed her education in New York and went on to have a lifelong career in social services and ministry. Maria was an advocate for those in need, touching and improving countless lives through her work and loving care of all who she encountered. Maria relocated to the Indiana area with her husband, Albert, who preceded her in death. Maria and Al enjoyed several years together in marriage and resided in a beautiful home located along the Ohio River. From there, they made many treasured memories with their friends and church family from Concord Community Church. The couple particularly enjoyed taking their boat out on the river. Maria was known for being a talented harp musician, often blessing others with the sharing of her music. At Concord Church, Maria would also often share commentary or expansions on various notes of the faith. Maria’s strong faith was a continuous theme throughout her life and we who grieve her, also rejoice for her receiving the reward of her great faith and great love for her Lord.

In her later years, Maria relocated once again to the Northern Kentucky area, where she found another loving and vibrant church family to serve alongside, Christ’s Chapel Assembly of God. Maria joined the pastoral staff, and spent hours every week visiting those in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care settings. Maria was a tremendous gift to her church and her community. Maria served as senior pastor the final few years of her life at First Assembly of God in Brooksville, Kentucky. 

Maria is survived by her stepson Charles Hardy of Prospect, Kentucky; nephews Douglas H. Marks of Stony Brook, New York and Chase Armstrong (and Sara) of Simpsonville, Kentucky; niece Carrie McDaniel (and Tony) of Finchville, Kentucky; brother-in-law Robert (and Jeanette) of Pendleton, Kentucky; many friends that were like family but not limited to Kristy Pryor, Joyce Champion, Jeanne Shepphard, Barb Cook, Donna Raymond, Steve and Sharon Ward, Bill and Bonnie Schreiner, Albert and Cleo Detmer, as well as Raeford Moore and Terry Crigger, who pastored and trained alongside her for several years.

Maria was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Mildred Marks; husband Albert “Al” Hardy; brother-in-law George Hardy; and sister-in-law Holly Armstrong.

Services for Maria are to be held at the Markland Funeral Home in Rising Sun, Indiana on Monday, July 13th, visitation 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with funeral at 11:00 AM, and burial to follow at Concord Cemetery.

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