Franklin Porter Hardy, Jr.

Franklin Porter Hardy, Jr., 87, of The Birches of Lehigh Valley formerly of Steel City, passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026 at the VNA Hospice House of St. Luke's, Lower Saucon Twp. He was the wife of Priscilla T. (Vallone) Hardy. Frank was born in Lewistown, PA on March 4, 1938 to the late Franklin Porter Hardy, Sr. and Rexine K. (Coble) Hardy. He was a 1956 graduate of Columbia High School. He then served our country faithfully in the U.S. Army during Peacetime. Following his military service he attended Youngtowns State University, Ohio and graduated with a Bachelors in 1965. Frank was a member of St. Anne Roman Catholic Church, Bethlehem. He was a well-respected manager in the retail industry, known for his dedication and strong work ethic. . He worked for K-Mart, Sears, Bottom Dollar in Bethlehem, and Giant in Hellertown and Linden Street Bethlehem until retiring. Frank was known for his warm spirit and generosity, particularly during the holiday season when he brought joy to countless children by playing Santa at Giant. His impressive knowledge of sports, especially his loyalty to the Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia sports teams, made him a familiar and beloved figure among friends and family. Frank also had a sweet tooth and enjoyed sharing the joy of treats. A huge fan of the movie "Field of Dreams," he often watched the movie with family.

Survivors: in addition to his loving wife of 37 years; step-daughters: Roxann Benny-Gilroy of Freemansburg, Debbie (Michael) Pruzinsky of Whitehall, Donna (Thomas) Louder of Steel City, Selena Busch and companion Tom Knottof Lewis ,DE, Valerie (Wayne) Getz of Cetronia; grandchildren: Stevie (Angel), Donya, Jonathan, Briana, Morgan & Kyle; 3 great grandchildren: Predeceased by his step-son-in-law: James Gilroy.

Services: Family and friends are invited to his viewings 5-7pm Wednesday, January 21, 2026 and 10-11am Thursday, January 22, 2026 all at the Connell Funeral Home, Inc., 245 East Broad Street, Bethlehem followed by a prayer service at 11am. The interment will follow at Holy Saviour Cemetery with full Military Honors.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Freemansburg Bethlehem Township Athletic Assoc., 600 Chestnut Street, Freemansburg, PA 18017.

Condolences may be offered online at www.connellfuneral.com.