Diane C. Hardy

Diane C. Hardy, cherished wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home in West Columbia, South Carolina, on December 16, 2024. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on January 16, 1950, to Al Clark and Vida Rawl, Diane was 74 years old. Shortly after her birth, her family returned to South Carolina, where she grew up in Batesburg-Leesville. Diane is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Daniel Spencer Hardy Jr.; her dear sister, Joanie Reeves; her two wonderful daughters, Adina Cooper and Robin Anselme; and a host of special bonus children who held a special place in her heart. She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren, Aharon Cooper, Brina Cooper, Alex Lindsey, and Jake Lindsey, and her adored great-grandchildren, Amalya Cooper, Tavor Cooper, Ohz Cooper, and Nili Cooper. Diane's legacy of love, joy, and kindness lives on through her family and all those whose lives she touched.

Diane attended Batesburg-Leesville High School in South Carolina, where she formed numerous lifelong friendships. As the eldest sibling, she took on a nurturing role, caring for her sister, Joanie Reeves, and brother, Gary Clark, while their mother worked. In the late 1960s, Diane met her first husband, James Teer. They enjoyed time together at the family-owned Clark store and bar, enjoying music, dancing, and laughter. The couple married and welcomed two daughters, Adina Cooper and Robin Anselme, before eventually parting ways. In 1985, Diane found her lifelong companion and best friend in Daniel Spencer Hardy Jr. The two shared nearly four decades of inseparable love and commitment, delighting in beach and mountain trips, adventures to see the grandchildren, movie nights hand in hand, Christian concerts, and much more.

Diane was an incredibly strong independent women who possessed an even stronger work ethic.   After years in business office roles, she discovered her true calling in nurturing children. In the late 1980s, she became a nanny for a special family, which inspired her to establish an in-home childcare center. Diane was renowned for her individualized care, encouraging each child's unique potential and celebrating their achievements into adulthood. She held deep affection for all the children she cared for, loving them beyond measure.

Diane was a dependable friend, mother, and grandmother to many. She was always there when needed, offering encouraging words or a sympathetic ear. She often supported others by doing their laundry, cooking, cleaning, visiting them in the hospital, and more. She was the family member and friend you could always count on when times were tough. Diane knew love and always gave love; she centered her life around her friends and family, adoring her children and grandchildren. Her family often says her gorgeous blue eyes were the most beautiful thing in the world, revealing her inner beauty and love for all of us. Diane will be missed by all that knew her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 2pm at Temples-Halloran Funeral Home Chapel at 5400 Bush River Road Columbia, SC 29212 followed by funeral reception located at the Clubhouse at Lexington Place Apartment located at 901 Rob Roy Court West Columbia, SC 29169.  We will invite guests for short stories or comments on behalf of our mother, so please prepare a memory if you would like to share with us.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations Dementia Society of America or to the Alzheimer’s Association .