Barbara (Johnson) Slate Hardy

Barbara Johnson Slate Hardy, 89, of South Carolina, formerly of Plainville, CT, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2021. 

Barbara was born on September 5, 1931 in Illinois, daughter of the late Adna F. Johnson and Caroline (Zeeb) Johnson. She attended New Britain and Berlin public schools graduating in 1950 from Berlin High School. Barbara attended the University of Hartford where she met Charles Slate. They were married in 1954. They had two children, Diane and Barbara Ann. Barbara worked many years as secretary at New Britain Machine where she met her second husband, Paul W. Hardy. They were married in 1980. 

Barbara enjoyed life to the fullest. Taking after her father, a national ping-pong champion, Barbara was known to play a game whenever she could. She enjoyed volunteering as a girl scout leader, nursery school teacher and Sunday school teacher. Barbara had a special place in her heart for St. Mark's Christmas Eve services. She loved being with people, and could talk endlessly. Ask anyone who tried to get a locker room key from her at the YMCA.

She was very active throughout her whole life, never sitting idle. She especially loved kayaking and bicycle riding. Barbara danced for many years with the Connecticut Valley Squares where she was known for hand sewing her beautiful dresses. She was an avid bridge player, often hosting games in front of her beloved fireplace serving her pizzelle cookies. Barbara loved her family. She leaves behind her daughter Diane Botti of Southington, CT and daughter Barbara Kijanka and husband Rick of Wadmalaw Island, SC. Barbara was an especially proud grandmother of three grandchildren, Kristina Kijanka, Ryan Kijanka, and Moriah Wynkoop. She was predeceased by her husband Paul Hardy and sister Carol Schwarzer. Calling hours will be on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 from 10:00 AM followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at the Bailey Funeral Home, 48 Broad Street, Plainville, CT. Burial will be at West Cemetery in Plainville immediately after the service. The funeral will be available via Zoom, meeting ID 925 9592 7251.

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