Ben Franklin Hardaway IV's Obituary
Ben Franklin Hardaway IV, 81, of Culpeper, Virginia, passed away on June 24, 2026, at UVA Medical Center in Charlottesville after a long illness. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, Navy veteran, and skilled problem-solver, he was known for his generosity, mechanical talents, and willingness to help anyone in need.
Born in Englewood, New Jersey, Ben spent his adult life in Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Colonel Ben Franklin Hardaway Jr. and Charlotte (Cubberley) Hardaway, and by an infant brother, Ben Franklin Hardaway III.
After high school, Ben enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS Fidelity and the USS Northampton. His military service reflected the sense of duty and commitment that would characterize his life.
On November 30, 1968, Ben married Linda Jesse, who survives him. Together, they shared 57 years of marriage. Also surviving are their two children, Amanda Hardaway and Howard (Danielle) Hardaway. Ben was a proud grandfather to Mackenzie, Adrianna, Jacob, Nicholas, and Isabella Hardaway. He is also survived by his brother, Peter Hardaway; niece, Tina Hardaway; nephew, Ross Hardaway; sisters, Charlotte Hardaway and Anne Robinson; and nephews, Jason and Christopher Robinson.
Following his military service, Ben worked as a government contractor for RCA, Unisys, and Lockheed Martin, repairing and installing computer systems. His career took him to the Pentagon, the White House, Indian Head, Maryland, and numerous other locations throughout the Washington, D.C., area. He retired in 2001 and, in 2005, moved from Manassas to Culpeper to be closer to his growing family.
Family was at the center of Ben's life. In retirement, he found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren and treasured the opportunity to watch them grow. Moving to Culpeper allowed him to be more involved in their lives, and he cherished the years spent nearby. Ben enjoyed keeping his grandchildren warm in his van while they waited for the school bus on cold mornings. He also loved chauffeuring them to and from after-school activities, including soccer and dance classes.
Ben was known for his ability to fix almost anything, including cars, and for his readiness to lend a helping hand. Whether repairing a neighbor's appliance, assisting family with a home project, or troubleshooting a computer problem, he rarely met a challenge he was unwilling to tackle. Friends, family, and neighbors knew they could always count on his knowledge, patience, and practical advice.
He enjoyed model railroading and had a lifelong fascination with trains, often taking train excursions whenever he had the opportunity. He also loved sailing and cherished time spent at the family cottage on Cape Cod, where many treasured memories were made.
Ben will be remembered for his quiet generosity, strong work ethic, steady presence, and unwavering devotion to his family. While he could fix almost anything, those who knew him best will remember that his greatest gift was the time, care, and love he gave to the people around him.
Ben's ashes will be interred at Culpeper National Cemetery following a memorial service.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Reformation Lutheran Church, 601 Madison Rd., Culpeper, VA, with Pastor Brad Hales officiating.
Inurnment will follow at Culpeper National Cemetery, 501 E. Chandler Street, Culpeper, VA, with military honors provided by the United States Navy and VFW Post 2524.
An online guestbook and tribute wall are available at https://www.foundandsons.com
Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper is serving the family.
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