Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Christine Octavia Hardy was born on June 23, 1936, to John Albert and Susie Bagley Hardy in Lunenburg County. Christine, also known as Plue, will be remembered for her remarkable life and the love she shared with her family and friends.

After graduating from Lunenburg County Public Schools, Chris embarked on a fulfilling career. She dedicated many years of her life to working at Philip Morris before retiring.

Chris found solace and strength in her faith, being an active member of the Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church. Her devotion to her spiritual beliefs provided her with comfort and guidance throughout her life.

In her free time, Chris indulged in various hobbies that brought her joy. She had a passion for shopping, particularly for clothes, shoes, and hats. She loved engaging in long conversations on the phone, cherishing the connections she made with others. Chris or “Bama” also cherished every moment spent with her “children,” as she referred to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their presence in her life brought her immense happiness.

She also loved to cook, and was known for her famous potato salad and candied yams.

Christine Hardy Mears, 87 of Richmond, passed away Monday, July 17, at VCU Community Memorial Health in South Hill, after a brief illness. Chris was preceded in death by her parents, John Albert and Susie Bagley Hardy, as well as her siblings: Nannie Sue, Lena Mae, Lillian Maude “Ben,” Mary Leigh, Lettie Bagley, Hattie Lewis, Ola Arlene, Irma Lucille, “Baby Brother” and Barbara Ann; her daughter-in-law, Daphne, and great-grandson, Xavier Terrell.

Plue is survived by her loving son, Darrell Mears Sr., and her grandchildren: Darrell Jr., Andre (Cathleen), Derrick (Jessica), Travis (Sabrina), Damien (Tia) and Dawn (Kayla). She also leaves behind 26 great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She cherished her devoted goddaughter, Wanda Hill; and devoted nieces and nephew, Edna, Mildred and Hardy. She also leaves behind devoted friends Shirley Bragg, Ms. McBride, Elaine and Henry.

Funeral service was held on Sunday, July 23, at 2 p.m., at St. Matthew’s Baptist Church, Kenbridge, Rev. Kevin A. Robinson, Pastor; Rev. Tyrone Nelson, Eulogist.

S.P. Jones & Son, Kenbridge, served the family.