The skateboarding community mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, James Hardy, who passed away at the age of 35 in Alabama. Known for his powerful presence on the board and genuine personality off it, Hardy’s sudden death has left fans and loved ones grappling with grief while reflecting on his impactful career and the health challenges he bravely confronted.
What Was James Hardy Cause of Death?
Hardy’s passing was confirmed by his close friend and fellow professional skateboarder, Dee Ostrander. While the news has sent shockwaves through the skateboarding world, many are now seeking answers about the circumstances surrounding Hardy’s death and his health struggles in recent years.
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A standout moment in Hardy’s life was when he shaved his head and eyebrows in solidarity with his best friend, Ryan Ezell, who was battling lymphoma cancer in 2010. Promising to mirror Ezell’s appearance if chemotherapy caused hair loss, Hardy’s gesture of support resonated deeply with many. His willingness to stand by his friend during such a challenging time showcased his compassionate nature and unwavering loyalty.
Throughout his career, Hardy was candid about his health issues, particularly his struggles with seizures and head trauma stemming from his time as a professional skateboarder. In an interview with Closer #2, Hardy shed light on the importance of raising awareness about head injuries within the skateboarding community. His openness about his own experiences served as a beacon for others facing similar challenges and emphasized the importance of prioritizing brain health in extreme sports.
Despite his health battles, Hardy continued to inspire countless skaters with his remarkable talent and dedication to the sport. His video parts left an indelible mark on the skateboarding world and will undoubtedly continue to influence future generations of riders.
In addition to his athletic prowess, Hardy was known for his genuine personality and willingness to speak his mind, both on and off the board. He approached life with maturity and authenticity, earning the respect and admiration of those around him.
Hardy’s family played a crucial role in supporting him through his health struggles, with his mother, Shirley Hardy, standing by his side through thick and thin. Her unwavering love and support were evident, and she affectionately referred to Hardy as “my favorite little guy.”
Despite his health challenges, Hardy remained active on social media, where he connected with fans and shared glimpses of his life. With over 30.2k followers on Instagram, he maintained a strong presence in the skateboarding community, showcasing his passion for the sport and his appreciation for the support he received from fans and sponsors alike.
Sponsors such as Real, Spitfire, Thunder, Dekline Footwear, and Faith Skateshop recognized Hardy’s talent and contributions to the sport, further cementing his legacy as a skateboarding icon.
James Hardy Obituary
As the skateboarding community grapples with the loss of James Hardy, his memory will endure through the countless lives he touched and the enduring impact of his contributions to the sport he loved. Though he may be gone, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him, serving as a reminder of the resilience, passion, and camaraderie that define the skateboarding community.
Ryan Ezell posted: The world lost a legend yesterday. Few people have impacted my life as much as James Hardy. From shaving his head and eye brows 14 years ago in solidarity with me to “send lymphoma homa” while I was going through chemo to just shooting hoops with me and my kids just a month ago. The humility, the infectious smiles, the genuine care for people. Man, my heart is truly broken today. Praise God for the hope we have in Jesus that James is celebrating now with Him.
Mackenzie Eisenhour reflected on James Hardy cause of death: Rest in Peace James Hardy. Very sad news yesterday from Alabama. Sending love to all his friends and family. From @transworldskate: James spoke openly about dealing with seizures and head trauma after his pro skateboarding career. His interview in Closer #2 is important. It was a seizure that ultimately took his life. @bamahardy