James B. Hardin

James B Hardin, 77, passed away Aug. 3, 2017 at Corpus Christi, Texas. James, a life-long resident of Arkansas had moved to Corpus Christi to enjoy retirement with his wife of 55 years, Shirley Ward Hardin. James was born Feb. 9, 1940, in Conway, Ark., to Paul Eugene Hardin and Ruth Brewster Hay. James is survived by his wife, Shirley, daughter Kelli Ann Granberry (Mark) of Little Rock, son James Scott Hardin (Page) of Bentonville, grandson Graham Hardin of Bentonville, sister Geraldine Hardin Myrick of Conway and brother Bill Hardin (Brenda) of Mount Ida. James was preceded in death by his sister Eleanor Hardin Opitz of Conway. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. James graduated from Conway High School in 1957 and attended ASTC (now UCA) and the University of Arkansas. Following his father's love of construction, James began his career as a site engineer constructing USAF Titan missile launch facilities before becoming an associate at Wittenberg, Delony & Davidson Architects in Little Rock. He joined the Baldwin Company in 1968 which evolved into Baldwin-Shell Construction Company where James was instrumental in its early growth. In 2000, James retired as Executive Vice President. During his career James served as the lead manager for hundreds of projects including the corporate headquarters of Murphy Oil in Texarkana, the Jones Center in Springdale and restoration of the Lafayette Building in Little Rock. James was a distinguished member of the Construction Specifications Institute being elected national Vice President in 1983-84 and was recognized as a Fellow in 1986. He served as President of the Arkansas Society of Professional Estimators in 1986 and was awarded its life-time service award in 1987. James also held leadership roles in the Associated General Contractors of Arkansas. James loved his family, his work and his ever loyal buddies Jimmy Hooten, Doug Henson and Hank Johns. James was a devoted fan of Razorback football and Oaklawn. He was a music enthusiast endlessly tapping his feet to John Prine, Merle Haggard, and any blue grass show he could find on AETN. While living in Fayetteville, he was Poppa Jim to Graham and his loyal side-kick Leo and their time together always brought stories of love and laughter. As his passing was imminent James spoke these words to Shirley, "I'm going to get me a sailboat and sail up to the clouds." For sure, James chose a windy day as he was always looking for adventure in soaring winds and high seas. Smooth sailing, James B. The family will hold an informal memorial on Oct. 22 in North Little Rock (details to come).