Jerry E. Hardin, 82, a resident of Bogalusa, passed away Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012 at the Mississippi Veteran’s Home in Collins, Miss.

Born Oct. 17, 1930, he was a retired veteran and served in the United States Navy in the Korean and Vietnam wars. He was a member of Main Street Baptist Church, a Mason and a member of Magic City American Legion Post 24 of Bogalusa. He started the first AARP Chapter in Bogalusa.

He is survived by two daughters, Theresa Hightower of New Orleans and Donna Hardin of Bogalusa; two sons, Dennis Hardin of Covington and Michael Hardin of Denham Springs; one sister, Charlotte Boxley of California; and the mother of his children, Janice Busby, of Denham Springs.

One sister, Linda Lawrence, preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held Monday, Dec. 17 at Poole- Ritchie Funeral Home from noon until time for the funeral services at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Rev. Patrick Magee will officiate, with interment to follow at the Magic City American Legion Veteran’s Cemetery in Ponemah Cemetery with military graveside services conducted by Magic City American Legion Post 24.

To view and sign online, visit pooleritchiefuneralhome.com.