Antonio “Tony” Lopez Hardy, 93, a longtime resident of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away on October 23, 2026. 

Tony was born on September 25, 1933, in Honduras, to the late Frank Dillon Hardy, Sr. and Lastenia Lopez Hardy. As a young boy, he moved with his family to Patrick Springs, Virginia, before eventually settling in Jacksonville, Florida, where he spent most of his life. 

Tony enjoyed a long career as a mechanical engineer with King Edward Cigars in Jacksonville, where he worked until his retirement. A hardworking and talented man, Tony always enjoyed working with his hands. Whether he was working on cars, fishing, tending to his garden, drawing, or tinkering with his latest project, he was rarely one to sit still. He loved figuring out how things worked and could often be found fixing, building, or creating something. 

Tony was known for his warm smile, his sense of humor, and his endless stories. He loved joking around and sharing memories, and he had a way of making those around him smile. He never met someone he couldn’t strike up a conversation with and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

 Above all, Tony had a heart for family, helping others, and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His faith was an important part of who he was, and he never missed an opportunity to share the love of Jesus with those around him. Even in his final days, Tony continued encouraging others to know Jesus and accept Him into their hearts. His greatest hope was that those he loved would one day join him in Heaven. 

Tony shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Wanda, who preceded him in death in 2021. He loved her dearly, and together they built a life centered around faith, family, love, and caring for others. Tony’s home was always open to anyone who needed a place to stay, a helping hand, or simply somewhere to belong. He never hesitated to take someone in and make room for one more. His kindness and generosity touched countless lives over the years. 

Tony was the father of three children and seven stepchildren, and his family grew to include 22 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren. 

Tony was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wanda Hardy; his parents, Frank Dillon Hardy, Sr. and Lastenia Lopez Hardy; his brother, Frank Dillon Hardy, Jr.; and his stepdaughter, Melinda Charles. 

Tony leaves behind his children, Jamie Hardy (Glendette), Michael Hardy, and Anna Hardy Pappalardo (Daniel); and his stepchildren, Ronnie Knight, Ann Beasley, Terry Knight, Duane Charles (Teresa), Tonya Jones (Tommy), and Deborah McFall (Bo). He also leaves behind his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and loved ones. 

During his final days, Tony was lovingly cared for by his daughters, Anna and Deborah, whose devotion and love brought him comfort and companionship. 

Tony will be remembered for his hardworking hands, his creative mind, his generous heart, his warm smile, and his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. His greatest legacy is not only the family he leaves behind, but the many people he welcomed into his life, the kindness he shared, and the seeds of faith he planted along the way. 

While our hearts are heavy, we find peace knowing that Tony is home with his Lord and Savior. And if there’s one thing we know for certain, it’s that he’s rejoicing, dancing, and praising Jesus in Heaven.

The tribute above was prepared by Tony’s loving family.

A Celebration of Tony’s Life will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at The Anchor Church of God with Dwight Allen and Bo McFall officiating. Interment will follow at Riverside Memorial Park at 3:00 p.m. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family’s guest book.