Harriet Shotola Hardwick

Harriet Shotola Hardwick, 87, of Meridian, Texas, peacefully passed away in her home on October 10th, 2024. Visitation will be Wednesday, October 16, 2024 from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at Lawson Funeral Home and funeral services will be at the First Methodist Church in Meridian, Texas on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. Burial will follow on Friday, October 18, 2024 at 9:00 A.M. at Parkdale Cemetery in Arlington, Texas. 

She was born on November 24th, 1936, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Frank and Sarah Shotola. Harriet moved to Texas with her family at a young age. After graduating from Arlington High School, she attended the University of Colorado in Boulder, where she developed a deep love for the mountains. 

Following her graduation, Harriet returned to Arlington and married Jerry Ray Foster, with whom she had three children. Tragically, Jerry passed away in 1972. Five years later, Harriet found love again and married Olin Alfred Hardwick, sharing more than 40 joyful years together. Harriet dedicated her life to education as a lifelong teacher with Arlington ISD, nurturing her passion for teaching until her final days by reading to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In 2000, Harriet and Olin retired to Meridian, where their home became a cherished gathering place for family. Harriet was preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, and her daughter, Heather. She is survived by her brother, Robert Shotola (Marilyn); her children, Mark Foster (Brenda) and Laurie Foster; her stepchildren, Kelly Klug and Scott Hardwick (Tracy); as well as her grandchildren Tyler, Erin, Weston, Delaney, Taryn, Blakeley, Travis, Ryan, and Shannon; and her great-grandchild, Chandler.

A devoted member of the First Methodist Church in Meridian, Harriet was remembered for her radiant smile and generous spirit. She had a remarkable ability to turn a house into a home, making everyone around her feel welcomed and cherished. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Meridian First Methodist Church or the Backyard Mission of Lubbock, located at 8205 Quincy Ave, Lubbock, Texas 79424. 

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home in Meridian, Texas, at 254-435-2792