Azell Hardnett, Jr.

Mr. Azell Hardnett Jr. was born to Azell Hardnett Sr. and Laney Hill Hardnett on September 11, 1936, in Perry, GA.

He was formally educated at Perry Training School and later attended Allapattah Elementary in Miami, FL.

On March 18, 1955, at the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Navy as a culinary specialist and completed basic training in San Diego, CA. He then was assigned to the U.S.S. John R. Craig (DD-885).

During his tour of duty, he traveled to many adventurous ports such as Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; Midway Island; Manilla and Subic Bay, Philippines; and Yokosuka and Nagoya, Japan.

He was honorably discharged on March 13, 1959.

After military service, Mr. Hardnett worked in distribution for Florida Beverage Company in Miami, FL.

Mr. Hardnett loved to hunt and was an excellent marksman. He also enjoyed cooking and sharing his culinary talents. He was known to have a vibrant sense of humor.

He was joined in holy matrimony to Marva Buckles Hugley. They were happily married until his final transition for 27 years, 11 months and 14 days.

Mr. Hardnett entered home hospice on August 26, 2024, under the loving care of his oldest granddaughter and caretaker of seven years, Mrs. Alisha Neal and her husband, Reginald

On Sunday, September 1, 2024, Mr. Hardnett transitioned from this life into eternity.

Mr. Hardnett was predeceased by both parents; paternal grandparents: Cubie and Ada Hardnett; maternal grandparents: Claud Hill and Tee Seni Rice Hill; sister, Angelette Hardnett; and grandchildren, Imani Hardnett and Megual Sturn. Left to cherish his memory and legacy are: sister, Dorothy Collins; children: Natalie Ann Dow of Warner Robins, GA, Paula Hardnett of Hollywood, FL, Doris Sias Leach (Twane) of Garland, TX, Sirena Sias of San Antonio, TX, Toraino Hardnett (Marvell) of Miramar, FL, Catressa Benjamin, Andre Ragin, Chipper Harrell (Rowena), Wendell Harrell and Donnie Harrell all of Perry, GA.

He also leaves 19 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. A host of cousins, nieces and nephews and adoring friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 5, 2024, in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home. 

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.