Ora Hardway

Ora "Tootie" Hardway (nee Hurst), a beloved resident of Vermilion, peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Mercy New Life Hospice, at the age of 92, after a lengthy illness.

Born on October 17, 1931, in Coxs Mills, WV, Tootie made Vermilion her home for 68 years, after moving from West Virginia.

Tootie achieved remarkable success in her career, graduating at the top of her class as an LPN and later as an RN. For a decade, she dedicated herself to managing Halls Nursing Home in Vermilion, followed by an illustrious 30-year tenure as an OB nurse at Amherst Hospital until her retirement in 1980.

Her commitment to faith was evident through her devoted membership and contributions to the First Assembly of God, where she and her husband, Earl "Red," played an instrumental role in constructing the church. Tootie was also instrumental in establishing Lucy Idol in Vermilion, showcasing her dedication to her community.

Her passions extended beyond her professional and community endeavors. Tootie found solace and joy in nature, often spending time outdoors nurturing her garden and tending to her beloved flowers. Her talents in cross-stitch and sewing were admired by many.

However, Tootie's greatest love was reserved for her family and her unwavering faith in God.

Tootie leaves behind a legacy cherished by her daughters, Brenda Hardway and Tina Brixie; grandchildren, Sean (Leah) Newbill, Lindsey Newbill, and Angela Brixie; great-grandchildren, Shawn Schenz, Bodhi Newbill, Brendan Newbill, and Natalie Newbill; as well as her brother, Danny (Donna) Hurst, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Earl "Red" Hardway; daughters, Linda and Tara Hardway; her parents, Garland and Ora (nee Wilson) Hurst; and siblings, Garland Hurst, Jr., Dottie Hamric, Francie Tallman, and Lewis "Duke" Hurst.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, from 11 AM until the service begins at 12 Noon at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio. The Reverend Russ Nelson will officiate the service, followed by interment at Rugby Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests honoring Tootie's memory with contributions to the First Assembly of God, 4931 Southview Drive, Vermilion, OH 44089.

Expressions of sympathy and online condolences can be shared at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.