American businessman Joseph A. Hardy III was the founder and CEO of the 84 Lumber Company and the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. He passed away on January 7, 2023.

Hardy announced at a tailgate party at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort on September 9, 2007, that he was withdrawing from the 2007 general election for Fayette County commissioner, effectively ending his political career. Hardy received the most votes in the 2007 primary for Fayette County commissioner.

84 Lumber expanded and opened 229 stores during the 1970s. In 1984, the company embarked on an expansion plan that included the opening of at least 30 new stores.

Along with grand openings, stores were remodeled and renovated from no-frills lumber yards to new and improved building materials stores. As the improvement plan proved successful, the company relaxed its strict cash-and-carry policy, allowing customers to use credit.

Joseph Hardy’s son, Joe Jr., rose through the ranks to become Chief Operating Officer at 84 Lumber, but he was passed over as the company’s successor after contracting multiple sclerosis. He was easily tired and needed to go home at a reasonable time to sleep; Joseph Hardy saw this as a flaw and fired his son.

How many children did Joe Hardy have?

He has seven children and has been married three times. Maggie, his daughter, is still the President of 84 Lumber.