Stuart Gregory Hardy, 31, was an EMT and firefighter with Burton Fire Department. Firefighting was not just his job, but his passion and love. Although he was only with Burton for a short time, his brothers will tell you that it seemed as if he had been there for years. Stuart had a way of making you feel like you were his best friend, a way of making you laugh, and a way of bringing sunshine to even the bleakest of moments. He was a genuine nice guy who cared for those around him and was always looking for a way to help those in need. This is probably why he found a calling in firefighting after his service in the Marine Corps. Stuart was a sergeant in the Marine Corps and served ten years, with two tours in Iraq, before deciding to leave the military service. He was a man of service and went from serving his country to serving his community.

Stuart believed in helping others and was one of those people that would give you the shirt off his back if he needed to. His career choices were always focused on serving, as was his personal life. Stuart served on a mission to South Sudan, Africa, with his church and always said that he left a piece of his heart there. He wanted to do more and was looking for his next opportunity to go and attend to the people of South Sudan.

Firefighting and missions were not Stuart’s only love and passion, but his three beautiful girls held his heart and were his true love. Alesandra, Savannah, and Madeline had their daddy wrapped around their fingers. He was always sneaking his girls treats and running around the house playing hide and go seek. When he was home, the laughter always seemed to be a little louder and the giggles seemed to last a little longer.

A great man was lost—a husband, father, brother, son, friend, and hero. He was a man with a passion and love for others that touched everyone he met. He will be truly missed by all that knew him and had the pleasure of listening to his stories and hearing his laughter. His children will grow up knowing that their father was a true hero and that he loved them more than anything in this world.