Kimberly Hardy

Kimberly Ann Hardy

COLUMBUS—Kimberly Ann Hardy, 55, passed away unexpectedly on August 17, 2025.

Kimberly was welcomed into this world on February 16, 1970, born to Caryl Hardy-Johnson and Michael Gravely. She spent her formative years in Columbus, Ohio, where she attended Franklin Middle School. She later moved to California and attended Moreno Valley High School. Kimberly received her secondary education at Riverside Community College in Riverside California, Columbus State Community College and Franklin University. Throughout her time in both locations, she formed lifelong friendships with Bobbi Hawkins and Christina DeHaro. A passionate basketball fan, she played the sport herself in her youth.

In her professional life, Kimberly worked various jobs in the service industry, including positions at AT&T, Ameritech, and in home health. She was most recently and affectionately known in the South Park community as "Ms. Kim" or "The Candy Lady," a role in which she found significant joy.

Kimberly will be remembered for her infectious smile, spontaneous and impulsive humor, and a no-nonsense, tough-love approach. She was never afraid to speak her mind and stand on her principles. A devoted mother and grandmother, she dedicated her life to raising her four children and eight grandchildren, who affectionately referred to her as “MawMaw Kimmie.”

When she found time, Kim enjoyed talking with her friends, camping, listening to music, and playing bingo. Her absence will be deeply felt by all the communities and people who had the honor of knowing her.

Kimberly is survived by her mother, Caryl Hardy-Johnson; her father, Michael Gravely; her brothers, Ryan (Ana) Johnson and Jason Johnson; her children, Ashley Hardy, Aaron Hardy, Cameron Hardy, and Kyle Hardy; and her grandchildren, Cameron Hardy Jr., Aubrianna Hardy, Amaiya Willis, Kyliee Hardy, Kennedy Hardy, and Ania Hardy. She also leaves behind her surrogate grandchildren, Nakyia Williams and Harmoni Brice; her aunt, Vicki Hardy; her uncle, Steve Pollard; and special friends Bobbie Hawkins, Christina DeHaro, Thai Hamrick, Brian Miller, and Lisa Clark. Kimberly also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Kimberly was preceded in death by her lifelong partner, Fred Wilson; her grandmother, Shirley Pollard; Grandfather , Morris Pollard; her aunts, Marcia Glass and Konni Fleming; her cousin, Melvin Hardy; her brother, Michael Gravely Jr.; and her grandson, Alexander Hardy.

Services will be administered by the Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Home where her family will receive friends from 9:00 am until time of service. Visit Kimberly's online tribute wall at www.diehl-whittaker.com.