Father Ernest Hardesty, 73, dies July 10

Published: July 11, 2022

Father Gregory Luyet, judicial vicar, released the following letter regarding the death of Father Ernest “Ernie” Hardesty on Sunday, July 10, 2022. Read his obituary in Arkansas Catholic to find a detailed list of parishes and ministries where he served in his 47 years of priestly ministry in the Diocese of Little Rock.

"Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

"With faith in the resurrection of the dead and the hope of eternal life, I announce that Father Ernest 'Ernie' Hardesty died this morning, July 10, 2022, at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Hospital (UAMS) in Little Rock.

"Father Ernie was a humble and dedicated priest. During his early days in the hospital, he told his family that his greatest gift was serving Christ and the Church for 47 years. Over the years he has served in many parishes throughout the Diocese of Little Rock, one of his gifts was working with young adults through campus ministry.

"The rosary followed by a visitation will be at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 13, at St. Leo the Great University Parish in Russellville. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 14, at Immaculate Conception Church in Blytheville.

"Burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery in Blytheville, followed by a meal in the Immaculate Conception Church hall.

"Peace in Christ,
Father Gregory T. Luyet"

Memorial donations can be made to St. Leo the Great University Parish in Russellville, St. John Newman University Parish in Jonesboro or any parish where Father Hardesty served. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let the perpetual light shine upon him. And may he and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.