Obituary

Morris Eric Hardiman, 73, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Saturday, January 18, 2025. Born in Louisville in 1952, he was the beloved son of Nellie Haskins and Eugene Harvey Hardiman. Morris was the cherished sibling of Eugene Hardiman (deceased), Michael Cunningham, June Cunningham (deceased), Betty Hardiman (deceased), and Hugh Patrick Hardiman.

Morris graduated from Central High School before proudly enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. His service began on February 20, 1970, and he was honorably discharged from active duty on March 9, 1972. His passion for serving his country brought him back to the Marines on December 19, 1973, where he continued his dedication until February 24, 1976.

During his adventurous life, Morris found love and partnership with Selene Davis. Their bond grew in Compton, California, where they shared countless joyful moments together. Their love story culminated in a beautiful wedding on July 9, 2022, in Las Vegas, Nevada, surrounded by family and friends.

Morris was a devoted father to his children, who were his pride and joy: Trina Edwards, Tracey Jackson, Shannon Johnson, Demetrea Hardiman, Shanise Coatney-Hardiman, Brandi Hardiman, Dorothy Hardiman, Ronnie Hardiman, Morris Hardiman, Robert Hardiman, and Melvin Woods. His legacy lives on through a large and loving extended family, including nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

He shared a special camaraderie with his lifelong friends, Bill and Val Alcorn, and Jay Steward. Together, they created countless memories, from backyard hangouts to thrilling motorcycle rides.

Professionally, Morris found fulfillment in his career as a truck driver and driver instructor/trainer with Swift. Over a decade on the open road brought him immense joy, and he took great pride in mentoring others before retiring.

Morris also found community and brotherhood as a longtime member and former President of the Los Angeles Zodiacs Motorcycle Club, where he spent decades riding and celebrating his passion for motorcycles. Later in life, he joined the Freemasons in 2019 and remained an active member until his passing.

Morris was a proud and passionate man who embodied both strength and tenderness. A Leo through and through, he carried himself with confidence and a deep sense of loyalty to those he loved. He was loving yet strict, always guiding his family with firm yet caring hands, showing that his discipline came from a place of deep love.

His time in the Marines was a source of pride and purpose, shaping his character and fueling his commitment to resilience and honor. Off-duty, he found freedom and joy in the open road, riding his motorcycle with a spirit that was equal parts bold and carefree.

Morris was a devoted husband who cherished his wife deeply, a father who loved his children fiercely, and a friend who valued his long-time companions with unwavering loyalty. He had a way of being both tough and sweet, a balance that made him unforgettable to those lucky enough to know him.

To sum it up, he was a man of many layers: proud, loving, strict, sweet, and sometimes a little mean—but always in his own unique and endearing way. He lived life with purpose and left an indelible mark on everyone who had the honor of being part of his journey.

Visitation for Mr. Hardiman will be held on Friday, January 24, from 4:00p.m.- 7:00 p.m., followed by the Masonic Ceremony.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2:00 p.m., at Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Memorial Chapel, 2103 E. 3rd St., Tulsa, OK 74104.

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