James Raymond Hardman

James Raymond Hardman, loving husband, father and friend, 69, of Commerce, passed away on Monday, October 11, 2021, in Greenville.  James was born on July 26, 1952, in Lima, Ohio, the son of Thomas and Elizabeth “Betty” Hardman

James attended Howard High school, graduating with the class of 1970. He then attended Illinois State University, earning his BA in Hospitality Management.  James was part of the first internship program for Marriot Hotels. Over the years, he became a hotel executive specializing in convention services. James worked with Marriott for thirty years. On July 11, 1998, he married his loving wife Betty Wilkins. The happy occasion took place in Plano, Texas. In his free time, James remodeled homes and enjoyed repairing cars.  He was also an avid golfer.  James and Betty attended New Life Congregational Church in Commerce.

James is survived by his wife of 23 years, Betty; his children, Katie Mittag and husband, Jake, Rochelle Lee and husband, Justin Clemons, Candace Hardman, Brandi Skinnell and Brooke Skinnell; grandchildren, Harper, Ridge, Remington, Monroe, Captain, and Thoreau; sisters, Janet Knight, and Joyce Beilharz, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Tom, and Betty Hardman.