Elizabeth 'Liz' Arlene Hardy, age 71, passed away on July 10, 2025, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Long Term Care.
Born on November 9, 1953, in Orange, Texas, Liz raised her family in Riverside, California. She worked as a beautician for several years, taking great pride in helping her clients feel beautiful and confident. Later, she moved to Norton, Kansas, to pursue a degree in nursing, determined to create a better life for herself and her family.
A determined and devoted single mother, Liz put herself through nursing school and earned her Licensed Practical Nurse degree. She went on to work many years as a compassionate and dedicated geriatric nurse. Along the way, she formed friendships that became lasting family.
Liz always placed her family and friends above herself. She made it her mission to ease the burdens of others, no matter how great or small. As a mother, she pushed her children to be the best version of themselves, offering wisdom, coffee, and warm hugs—especially when things didn’t go according to plan. She was a comforting presence who knew how to make the world feel right again.
Everything changed when she became a grandmother. Her grandkids were her pride and joy—her "most precious diamonds." She talked about them every day to anyone who would listen and made sure they were always greeted with love, goodies, and treats. Adults may have been served peanut butter and jelly, but the grandkids got the world.
Liz is survived by her children: Norman (Karen) Hardy of California, Lonnie (Noelle) Hardy of Larned, KS, and Peggy (James) Hale-Hardy of WaKeeney, KS; bonus children: David Vinsonhaler of WaKeeney, KS, and Dawn Glenn of Brighton, CO; grandchildren: Samantha Hardy, Siobahn Hardy, Jade Nix, Americus Barnett, Dartanyon Barnett, Torri Barnett, Connie Ross, and Johnathan Hale; and many beloved cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Chuck and Peggy Whiteley; soulmate, Darylo Conard; brother, Chips Woods; daughter, Lisa Hardy; granddaughter, Moriah Hardy; and many dear friends and family members.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 29, at 10:30 a.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home in WaKeeney, KS.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Elizabeth Hardy Memorial Fund and sent to:
Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672
To share memories or offer condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.