William F. "Bill" Hardesty, Sr. died March 21, 2010 with his family around him at his home after a lengthy battle with cancer. Born February 2, 1930 in Dentsville, he was the son of the late John Francis Hardesty, Sr. and the late Esther Lena Mayer Hardesty.

Bill farmed for 30 years before embarking on his second career with Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative working there for more than 30 years before retiring in 1995.

In his youth he was active in 4-H and FFA while tending to the family farm. When his children were young he enjoyed many years as a coach for Hughesville Little League; where he developed many life long friendships. He was active with the local Isaac Walton League and Optimist Club. He was a great supporter of Spring Dell Center where he was everyone's "Pop" and known as the "Cookie Man". He enjoyed cooking oysters, gardening, attending auctions, collecting and refinishing antiques and so loved his family. He adored his three grandchildren and his constant companion - his cat, Nosey.

He is survived by his son, Bill Hardesty, Jr. his wife, Myra, daughter, Susie Hardesty and her fiancé, Gary Bowden, and grandchildren Kayla, Justis and MyLee. He is also survived by his brothers John F. Hardesty, Jr. and Paul U. Hardesty, sister, Joyce Suit Cooksey and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 24, 2010 at Arehart-Echols Funeral Home in La Plata from 2-4 and 6-8 with a prayer service at 7 pm. Mass will be Thursday, March 25, 2010 at 10 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Bryantown, MD. Burial will take place at the church cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Steve Suit, Eddie Clements, Steve Wyant, Andy Suit, Gary Bowden and Willie Rawlings. Special honorary pallbearer will be Justis Hardesty.

Memorial contributions may be made to Spring Dell Center, Inc. 6040 Radio Station Road La Plata, MD 20646.

Arrangements provided by Arehart-Echols Funeral Home.