Donald E. Hardaway, 74, of Perryville, passed away Thursday, November 20, 2025, at The Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau.
He was born on October 17, 1951, in Houston, Texas, to Henry Edward and Margaret Marie (Karl) Hardaway.
Donald graduated with a PHD from the University of Houston. He taught IT and Information Systems for over 30 years at St. Louis University in St. Louis. Donald enjoyed using computers for business and pleasure.
Donald and Carolyn Bey-Pontillas were married on November 19, 2011. Following, he moved to Perryville, where he spent 14 years enjoying rural life and animals. He was the proud owner of three American Saddlebred horses and enjoyed showing them.
He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion Booster and several Free Mason lodges.
Survivors include his wife, Carolyn Hardaway; two sons, J.C. (Natasha) Hardaway M.D. of Dallas, Tex., Nick (Ashley) Hardaway of Eureka; two stepchildren, Ryan (Annie Sklar) Pontillas of Barre, Vt., Maria (Rory) Shakles of Warrenville, Ill.; three sisters, Jane Whitney of Dallas, Tex., Susan (Paul) McLain of Cypress, Tex., Barbara Lynch of Houston, Tex.; grandchildren, Silas, Wyatt, Grayson, Whitley and Piper; nephew, Paul (Premila) Whitney; two nieces, Jeanette (Jose) Iglesias M.D., Annette (Jeff) Whitney-Rasanskey M.D. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Larry Hardaway, Norbert Hardaway and Tom Hardaway; and stepdaughter, Laurie Bey-Pontillas.
Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, December 1, 2025, at the Mausoleum Chapel at Mount Hope Cemetery in Perryville, with Deacon John Darin officiating.
Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery in Perryville.
Memorial contributions may be given to the National Pancreatic Foundation or Southeast MO Pets.
Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome. com.
Ford & Young Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
