Alton Hugh Long (aka "Paw Paw") was my maternal grandfather. He passed away just over two years ago. I am fortunate to have had a grandfather well into my 30's and one who was able to meet my first child! More than that, I am fortunate to have had Paw Paw as my grandfather for any amount of time. It has been said by some in my family that I remind them of him. To be fair this is sometimes meant as a compliment and sometimes as a warning. Paw Paw wasn't a perfect person. None of us are. But let me tell you, he WAS the perfect grandfather. Paw Paw loved to have fun. He was always willing to play with us, spoil us, or just chat with us. Oh man did he love a good chat. He loved sports of all kinds and was quite the athlete in his day. He told jokes and could charm anyone into just about anything. What made Paw Paw unique, though, (and what I hope I take from him) is that his charm was met with genuine care and concern for others. He loved Jesus and knew Jesus loved him. This overflowed into his actions. The man loved to help, to give, and to encourage. He wrote hand-written notes, was faithful to his church, and made a donation to any random charity that solicited him. He had an appetite for life that was filled by time with people he loved, service to those around him, and on Saturday nights, a nice big steak. I hope my son takes after him in these ways. I hope my son is charming, yes, but more than that I hope he cares. I hope he examines how he can better his community and those around him. I also hope he lives life to the fullest. I hope he takes it all in, makes a few (minor) mistakes along the way, and keeps moving forward with the Joy that only the Lord can give. I think that would make Paw Paw smile!
Will's mom's maiden name is Hardage. She, like me, left her hometown when she married. She moved to and immersed herself in the hometown of her husband. From what I can see, she's done so with joy and grace. Will and I wanted to honor her side of the family with this name. Growing up, Will never knew his father's parents. They passed away before he was born. He did, however, get the chance to know his grandparents on the Hardage side. Luckily, Will’s mom has provided us with some wonderful insight on Grandaddy Hardage.
Joseph Clinton Hardage, Sr. (aka J.C. or Granddaddy) was Will’s maternal grandfather. He passed away when Will was almost 10, so his memories include not only what he remembers but what he has been told by his parents. His grandfather had to take over the family farm at a young age when his father died. Perhaps that is where he developed his love of the land and a strong work ethic. Even though
his business led him to be a city dweller, he always maintained a “farm” where he could plant a garden. Not only did he enjoy the produce, but his real joy was giving the surplus to charitable organizations such as a homeless shelter and to friends and people in need.
The other loves of his life were God, family, country, and Atlanta Braves baseball. He was actively involved in his church where he probably served on every committee there was. He particularly enjoyed serving the young people of all ages in the church. He religiously took his turn doing nursery duty, provided meals for the youth fellowships on Sunday evening, chaperoned youth choir tours, and provided hay rides for the young people at “The Farm.”
Even with a busy work schedule of running a business, often 6 days a week, he never neglected spending
time with his family and especially his four grandchildren. The highlight of his visit with them was getting to take them to the playground at the park and afterwards for an Icee.
He was particularly proud of having served his country on the battlefield in World War II. His business often took him onto the army base, Fort Benning, and he really enjoyed visiting withand admired the young men who were there training to serve their country also.
We are so honored for our son to carry on the names of these wonderful men and their families!
