Elizabeth "Betty" Hardesty

Elizabeth “Betty” Garner Hardesty, 91, of Beaufort, passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at Crystal Bluffs Rehab and Health Center in Morehead City.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at Live Oak Grove Christian Church with Pastor Bill Pollock officiating. Burial will follow at Carteret Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 AM Saturday at the church. The service will be livestreamed to Betty’s obituary page at noefs.net.

Born on June 12, 1932, to Lee and Helen Garner, Betty's life was a testament to her love for family, her creative spirit, and her unwavering resilience.

She was a devoted mother to her children, Helen Rooney and husband MajGen (ret) Arthur “Artie” of Summerville, SC, Lionel "Buddy" Gordon Hardesty III of Beaufort, and Debora Jean Hardesty of Beaufort. Betty was a proud grandmother to Arthur Rooney III of Chicago, IL, daughter-in-law, Debbie Rooney of Chicago, IL; Elizabeth Hayes and husband Dan of New Braunfels, TX, Gordon Rooney and wife Emily of Columbus, OH, Russell Rooney of Tallahassee, FL, Challie Martin of Beaufort, Joel Hardesty of Beaufort, and Ethan Springle of Beaufort. Her role as a great-grandmother to Caroline Rooney, William Rooney, Patrick Rooney, Erinn Rooney, Noah Shimp, Hunter Shimp, Zachary Shimp, Jacob Shimp, Joseph Leybas, Raylee Ferrari, Whitley Willis, and Sofia Rooney. All of whom she adored, and brought her immense joy.

Betty was a cherished sister to Audrey Fodrie and Carol Cannon and husband Craig, all of Beaufort. She was a beloved aunt and great-aunt to many nieces, nephews, cousins, and held a special place in the hearts of numerous loved ones and friends who felt the warmth of her presence. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Gordon Hardesty Jr, her sister Diane Cox. Her steadfast belief in family and community will be her enduring legacy.

A member of Live Oak Grove Christian Church, Betty's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Her hands, always busy, were skilled in the art of sewing; she was renowned for her work as a great seamstress. Her creative touch was evident in the clothes she lovingly made for her family and community. As well as successful Wig Shops she owned and operated in Charleston, SC, and Morehead City.

Betty's caring nature extended beyond her family as she served as a caregiver to the elderly, helping those in need with the same love and attention she gave her own family. An avid gardener, she found solace and joy in the outdoors, tending to her plants with the same patience and care that she showed to those around her. As avid cat enthusiast, Betty’s home was a sanctuary for her feline friends, each of whom she doted upon with unconditional love and affection.

Her love for travel and adventure took her to many places, but she remained fiercely independent and strong-willed, embodying the true spirit of a "Jack of all Trades." There was nothing she couldn't do, and she approached every challenge with determination and grace.

Those who knew Betty would describe her as loving, adventurous, and creative. Her life was a canvas of experiences, each stroke painted with the vibrant colors of her personality. She lived her life fully, embracing every moment with a zest that was contagious.

As we say farewell to Elizabeth "Betty" Garner Hardesty, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire. Her memory will be cherished, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Betty's journey on this earth may have concluded, but the stories of her love, her adventures, and her creative genius will be told for generations to come.

Betty’s final days were spent in the compassionate care of the dedicated nurses, aides, and therapists on the 2nd floor of Carteret Health Care and at Crystal Bluffs. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to these remarkable caregivers for their kindness and unwavering support. Their efforts ensured that Betty's last moments were filled with dignity and grace, reflecting the way she lived her life.

Flowers are welcome or donations may be made to: Live Oak Christian Church, 166 Russells Creek Rd, Beaufort, NC 28516.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noefs.net

Arrangements by Noe Funeral Service, Inc. of Beaufort, NC.