Wilhamene “Willie” Freeman Hardman, 96, of Waverly, Ohio passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Adena Regional Medical Center in Chillicothe, Ohio surrounded by family. She was born September 5, 1929 in Columbus, Ohio daughter of the late Okey and Ruby Vance Freeman. On October 29, 1947 she was united in marriage to Wilbur Glen Hardman who preceded her in death in 2012.
Willie was a fierce card player, especially bridge, where she was a member of two bridge clubs for many years. She also loved euchre often beating other euchre competitors at the Senior Center. She was also an avid Cincinnati Reds fan, rarely missing a game. She had a sharp wit and infectious laugh that we all loved. Willie’s greatest joys were her family and friends. She loved parties, going out to eat, shopping, music and traveling. She was also a member of the Grace United Methodist Church in Waverly where she served as a Sunday School teacher. She held various part-time jobs including a shoe store, laundromat, being a volunteer at Adena and a 4-H advisor all while she raised 6 children.
She is survived by her children, Janice Hicks of Waverly, Bryan (Pam) Hardman of Virginia, Dean (Tami) Hardman of Waverly, Jeff Hardman of Waverly, Mark (Sherry) Hardman of Piketon and Jill (Karl) Milliron of Mansfield, Ohio; 8 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren; as well as beloved nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Roger Hicks; great-grandson, Caleb Westfall; and siblings, Norma Jean Carpenter and Jerry Freeman; as well as nephews, Matt and Steve Hardman.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, May 11, 2026 at Botkin Hornback Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.
The family would like to thank Adena Regional Medical Center doctors, nurses and staff. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Waverly Senior Citizens Center or Grace United Methodist Church in Waverly.
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