Alta Hardy, 86, of Flagstaff died Sunday, March 27, 2011.

Mrs. Hardy was born August 10, 1924, in Salt Lake City, to Henry Otto Heller and Alta Marie Jacques Heller. She married John Wilden Hardy in 1949. Theirs was a life-long romance symbolized by the couple's favorite song, "My Happiness." For years, Mrs. Hardy's car, a gift from her husband, bore a personalized license plate with the song's title. Mr. Hardy died in 2009.

During their 59-year marriage, they lived in Twin Falls, Idaho, Ventura, Calif., and Phoenix before coming to Flagstaff where they built one of the first homes in the Continental Country Club neighborhood. Mrs. Hardy and her husband enjoyed entertaining visiting friends and family. She was a gracious hostess and excellent cook. A small sign at the couple's front door read, "Flag Hotel."

Mrs. Hardy and her husband also enjoyed international travel and they visited six continents over the years. But Mrs. Hardy most enjoyed creating a beautiful home for her husband and family. Mr. Hardy's career was in home furnishings but Alta was the chief decorator at home. Her other pastimes were reading, collecting antiques, and watching the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Phoenix Suns. Alta never met a stranger. She always had a smile for everyone and made them feel special.

Mrs. Hardy is survived by her children, JoAnn (L.A.) Wilson of Duncansville, Pa., Amy (Mike) Wilkinson of Phoenix, Jim (Sandi) of Ventura, Calif., and Allyn (John) Barefield of Flagstaff; grandchildren Matthew, Angela, and Jared; and great-grandchildren Jacob, Gabriel, and Helena. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Rose Marie and Gloria; and brothers Otto, Paul, and Duff.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Northland Hospice and Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, for the compassionate care given to mother during the past months.

No services are planned.