Dorothy 'Kay' Hardy, age 70, of Cherryville, NC, passed away peacefully on Saturday September 18th after spending a special day with her family.

Born in Birmingham, AL on November 29, 1950, she was the daughter of the late Clarence and Catherine South. Kay was a retired physical therapist and was instrumental in opening the Spine Center in Charlotte, NC. Her passion for the profession continued throughout her life. She was an inspiration to all she met and her love for Christ was present in her every action. No matter what she endured, she exuded joy and that is what we will all remember most about her.

She was a loving and devoted wife and is preceded in death by her husband of over 25 years John 'Jay' Hardy III.

She is survived by her son Lee Collins; daughter Christie Martin (Matthew); grandchildren Stella and Jasmine Martin; stepson John Hardy IV; stepdaughter Melissa (David) Altman; step grandchildren Luke, Hope, and Lauren Altman; step great grandchild Tessa; siblings, Jerry South (Ming); Robbie South; Bonnie Payne (Benny); nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other friends and family members. She will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 9th at 2:00pm at Clay Barnette Funeral Home in Shelby, NC. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorials may be made to the MS Society or the ALS Association.

FUNERAL HOME: Arrangements are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center

ONLINE CONDOLENCES: www.claybarnette.com