
Frances Hardin
September 19, 1940 – May 5th, 2026
Frances “Frannie” Ann Hardin (née Byers), 85, passed away on May 5, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by the love of her two children.
Frannie was born to John and Burene Byers (nee Horton) on September 19, 1940 in Irondale, Missouri. Frannie grew up with a strong sense of family, humor, and generosity that shaped her entire life. She graduated from Leadwood High School in Leadwood, Missouri, and later devoted herself primarily to being a homemaker — a role she carried out with care, pride, and her signature tidiness. Over the years she also took on various odd jobs, including running her own shortlived but memorable home cleaning service.
Frannie is survived by her two children, Bryan Bradley and Lora Hardin, both of St. Louis. She is also survived by a sister, Ginny Livell, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents John and Burene Byers, her first husband, Sylvan Keith Bradley; her second husband, William David Hardin; a sister, Donita Hardy (Byers); twin brothers, Larry and Gary Byers, and her daughter-in-law Teresa Lynn Bradley (Eyman).
Known for her quick wit and warm spirit, Frannie had a gift for making people feel welcome. “She never met a person, or dog, she didn’t love.” She was an excellent cook, and her famous spaghetti became a cherished tradition whenever her twin brothers visited. Her home was always organized, inviting, and filled with thoughtful touches — a reflection of her meticulous nature and generous heart.
For decades, Frannie made it a point to send birthday cards, letters, or small gifts to siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends. These gestures, simple yet deeply meaningful, became one of her most enduring trademarks.
In her later years, Frannie found joy in treasure hunting with her daughter at estate sales. Together they ran a booth in St. Louis under the name Frantiques & Uniques, where Frannie’s keen eye for valuable and unusual items shined. Their adventures often took them to the “Highway 127 Longest Yard Sale,” traveling from Signal Mountain, Tennessee to Frankfort, Kentucky — usually with her sister Ginny along for the ride. Those trips were filled with laughter, stories, and memories the family will always hold dear.
Frannie’s life was defined by kindness, humor, and an unwavering love for the people around her. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and countless small acts of thoughtfulness that will continue to ripple through the lives of those who knew her.
Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 31st, 2026 12:00pm to 3:00pm
At The Jefferson Grill 127 W Jefferson Ave. Kirkwood, MO 63122
Parking is available next to PJs Tavern, across the street, and street parking.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting the following for memorials, in her name:
Open Door Animal Sanctuary, 6065 Duda Rd, House Springs, MO 63051
JFK Clinic at Mercy Health Foundation, 615 S. Ballas Rd, St. Louis, MO 63141 or call 314-251-1800
Arthritis Foundation
