Marian ‘Mimi’ Dodge Hardy (1928-2019)

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Marian ‘Mimi’ Dodge Hardy

PHILLIPS – Surrounded by her family, Marian ‘Mimi’ Dodge Hardy, a longtime resident of Phillips, died on Aug. 22, 2019, at the age of 91.

She was born in Kingfield on Jan. 15, 1928, the daughter of Philip and DeEtte (White) Dodge.

After graduating as salutatorian of the Phillips High School class of 1947, she trained at Pelletiers’ School of Cosmetology in Lewiston. Later on, she attended Monterey Community College in Monterey, California, and studied library science at the University of Maine, Farmington.

On June 24, 1950, Mimi married Navy Ensign Corydon Hardy, and they began an adventurous life of travel for the next 18 years. Mimi loved her years as a Navy wife and was always active and involved wherever she found herself. For many years she was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, member of the Navy Officers’ Wives Club, and faithful parishioner of the Methodist Church.

Upon her husband’s retirement to Phillips, Mimi continued to be committed and hard-working for organizations in town. She was part of community betterment efforts to replant trees lost to Dutch elm disease and to rebuild the town after the catastrophic 1971 fire. Mimi served as president of the American Legion Auxiliary and the associated Eight and Forty, as well as the Phillips Garden Club, Shared Ministry Women, and United Methodist Women. She was secretary for both the North Franklin Snowmobile Club and the Learning and Sharing Extension group of Strong. She taught Sunday school and was a Sunday school superintendent for the Phillips United Methodist Church. Until her mid-80’s she served on the Shadagee Housing board of directors. One of her greatest joys was membership in the Phillips Garden Club. Over the years, her arrangements won numerous blue ribbons in the annual juried flower shows held during Old Home Week.

Perhaps her most important contribution to the town was modernizing the Phillips Public Library. During a decade-long tenure as librarian, Mimi updated the filing system and expanded services, including the creation of special children’s programs that included story hours and themed picnics.

Mimi was predeceased by her husband, LCDR Corydon Hardy, and her three brothers Galen, Colin and Robert. She is survived by her children Dennifer Hardy of Wilton, Christian Hardy (Julie) of Phillips, and Arolyn Childs (Larry) of Fairfield, grandchildren Emily, Ansel, and Benjamin (Alexandra), and one great-grandson, Oliver. The family would like all those who knew Mimi to honor her by volunteering in activities or donating to organizations that benefit others.

In keeping with Mimi’s wishes, no funeral services are planned; there will be a private family gathering at a later date. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 68 Main Street, Phillips, ME 04966.

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16 Comments

  1. Sincere condolences to Mims family. She was truly a wonderful lady. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to spend time with her and get to know her. I will forever cherish my conversations and reminiscing with Mim. She will forever be a bright star overlooking her family with love and affection. R i p dear lady.

  2. My sincere condolences to all the family. She will always be with you in spirit. Hugs and prayers for all of you.

  3. Our hearts are with you. What s precious soul! Heaven has gained. ❤️
    Our prayers are with you all~. Dave and Susy Sanders

  4. We are so sorry to hear of Mimis’ passing. I went to her home to do her hair and
    she was in great spirits that day. We had a lot of laughs and I was so glad I made
    the time to visit her. Renee and Lorraine

  5. nan, Dennifer and Chris,
    We were so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing .She was such a delightful person , always had a kindly way about her. she will be missed b
    y all who knew her.

  6. So sorry to hear of Mim’s passing. Very pleased to have known such a lovely lady. Thoughts are with the family.

  7. Steve and I send our condoldences.I enjoyed many visits with mimi and Coryodon.I member trying to help him with his dog.

  8. Sorry I found out so late So sorry for Mimi’s passing. My mom (Maude) was BFF’s with Mim and shared her home with Mimi in the 80’s. Condolences to her family members and other friends; she will be missed..

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