Tributes pour in for Ballymena businessman Sean Hardy after peaceful passing

Local businessman Sean Hardy

Tributes have been paid across the community following the death of respected Ballymena businessman Sean Hardy, who passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, 16th May 2025.

A native of Ahoghill, Mr Hardy was best known as the longstanding figurehead of Hardy Brothers Wholesale, a family-run business whose roots in the confectionery trade date back to the 1940s. The Hardy name is deeply woven into the fabric of Northern Ireland’s retail and wholesale landscape.

The family business was first established by Edward Hardy Senior, who operated a small shop and wholesale distribution company. Over the decades, Hardy Brothers Wholesale has grown into a trusted, regional enterprise, boasting a fleet of delivery vehicles and a workforce of more than 25 employees.

Under Sean Hardy’s leadership, the company upheld its founding values of quality, service, and community connection. Locals often associated Sean with integrity, compassion, and professionalism.

Following news of his passing, tributes have poured in from across the area. Members of the community have described Mr Hardy as:

“a gentleman”,

“a good employer”,

“a decent man”, and

“kind and caring”.

The Hardy family is widely respected throughout Ballymena and Ahoghill, and Mr Hardy’s contributions to local business and community have been long acknowledged by peers and customers alike.

Funeral Arrangements Confirmed

WJ O’Donnell & Sons Funeral Directors has confirmed the funeral arrangements for Mr Hardy.

“Hardy (8 Clooney Road, Ahoghill) 16th May 2025 (peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family).

“Sean RIP, beloved husband of Frances, much loved father of Shaun-Og, Gareth, Stephen, and Declan, loving father in law of Shauna, Sharon, Orla, and Brenda, cherished grandfather of Keir, Fiontan, Lughan, Odhran, Myles, Eabha, Grace, Erin, Isla, Belle, and Nancy and dear brother of Helen, Marie, Philomena, Edward, Siobhan, Dolores, and the late Nuala.

“Sean’s wake will officially begin at his late residence on Saturday 17th May at 7pm. NB: Family time requested each day between 10pm to 10am.

“Sean’s remains will leave his late residence on Monday 19th May at 9.50am for 10.30am Requiem Mass in St Mary’s Church, Ahoghill, burial immediately afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

“Deeply regretted by his sorrowing wife, sons, daughters in law, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and all the family circle. On his soul sweet Jesus have mercy.

“Family flowers only please, donations in lieu if desired to ‘Marie Curie Cancer Care’ c/o the family.”

Mr Hardy’s death marks the end of an era for Hardy Brothers Wholesale and the wider Ballymena business community. His legacy will endure through the continued work of the family business and the many lives he touched during his lifetime.