Anna Lou “Ann” Hardesty was born October 14, 1939 in Martin, Tennessee to Rufus and Estelle Burdette. She passed from this life Tuesday, February 10, 2026 in Tulsa at the age of 86.

She graduated from Janesville Senior High School in Janesville, Wisconsin and attended University of Wisconsin – Whitewater working on a degree in nursing.  She met her husband, Gene Hardesty, while vacationing with a friend in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and they married shortly after in Tulsa on November 1, 1963 at Christ the King church. They established their home in Tulsa and began a family welcoming children: Mark, Karen and Kimberly.

She was a passionate Hallmark enthusiast and worked at J’s Hallmark for over 40+ years; she found great joy in collecting ornaments and helping customers celebrate life’s special moments.  She served in a few roles during her time there and loved all of her Hallmark friends.

She was a quiet servant to others, the kindest and most generous soul. To know her was to love her. Though her gentle nature was sometimes misunderstood as reserved, her heart was anything but small-she would do absolutely anything for anyone who needed a hand. She gave freely of herself without ever asking for recognition, finding her greatest joy while lifting others up. Above all, she was the biggest cheerleader and supporter of her family, celebrating every victory, comforting every sorrow, and loving them with a depth that will carry through the rest of their lives.  We want to give a special thanks to the wonderful St. Francis nurses (angels) who gave such good care to mom in her time of need. The family is forever grateful.

She got more interested in Wisconsin teams, Notre Dame and Ok State sports after her husband passed away.  She loved talking to her brother about the games and he would keep her up to date on schedules so she wouldn’t miss a game.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, June Burdette Greer; her brother, Thomas Burdette of Janesville, WI. She is survived by her son, Mark Hardesty of Tulsa; daughters, Karen Hardesty of Houston, TX, Kimberly Hardesty Shipman of Tulsa; grandchildren, Taelor Hardesty of Houston, TX; Madysen Hardesty Quinby of Hot Springs, AR and Jayden Hardesty of Tulsa; her brother, Larry Burdette of Janesville, WI and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 16, 2026, at the Church Of The Madalene.  Viewing will be held at the church prior to the service.  Father Desmond Okpogbas presiding and Father Michael Knipe to assist.  She will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery following and friends and family are invited to a reception at 1:30 p.m. at 1834 S. Kingston Avenue.  The family requests any gifts honoring Ann to be sent to: Tulsa Garden Club - Rose Fund, PO Box 521003 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74152-1003.

  Tulsa Garden Club - Rose Fund

Ninde Funeral & Cremation | (918) 742-5556 | ninde.com