James “Jae” Lee Hardy Jr., born on February 8, 1950, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2024, at the age of 74. He was raised in Moultrie, Georgia, but had made North Carolina his home for many years. Jae was a devoted husband, father and brother, and above all, a loving granddad.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cornelia P. Hardy and James Lee Hardy Sr.; and his sister, Connie Mullins. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Mary L. Hardy; his three children, Jennifer L. Ayers (Drew), James Lee Hardy III, and Margaret “Meg” E. Hardy; and his two cherished granddaughters, Aubrey Ayers (10) and Caroline Ayers (6), who were the lights of his life. He is also survived by his sister, Jane H. Brown, and his brother, Robert Hardy.

Jae earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering from the University of Georgia and later completed his MBA at St. Ambrose University. He was a proud member of Mensa International, reflecting his deep intellectual curiosity and love for learning. Throughout his career, Jae was a dedicated and accomplished professional engineer, whose work was a testament to his discipline and expertise.

As a father, Jae was present and active in his children’s lives. He could often be found at dance and cheer recitals, soccer games, football games, or anywhere his kids needed his support. He served as an assistant scoutmaster for his son’s Boy Scout troop, teaching valuable life skills and encouraging leadership. Jae was always ready to lend his expertise during home renovations, offering not just moral support but also his engineering skills for the many projects his children undertook.

Outside of his career, Jae was a man of many passions and interests. A lifelong Georgia Bulldogs fan, he loved cheering on his team. He had a remarkable talent for sewing, baking, grilling, and even crafting his own knives, finding great joy in creating with his hands. He also cherished the peaceful moments at the cabin he and Mary shared in Millers Creek, N.C., where they would sit together and listen to the calming sounds of the creek. Road trips were another shared passion — Jae loved hitting the road with his co-pilot Mary but never passed up the chance to embark on a new adventure with other loved ones, always eager to explore and make memories.

In retirement, Jae fully embraced his favorite role of “Granddad.” His greatest joy was spending time with Aubrey and Caroline. He deeply valued his family, and his granddaughters held a special place in his heart.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Jae found his most fulfilling years in the moments spent with his family. His legacy of love and devotion will live on in the lives of all who knew him.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 23, 2024, at Glenwood Memorial Park, Mooresville, with Rev. Timothy Friar officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org) in Jae’s memory.

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, Mooresville, is serving the family of Mr. Hardy. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.