Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

YOU LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER !!!

S,S,M

December 11, 2007

Yet another month has passed without you here and its still oh so noticeable. I guess things will never really be like they use to. Doesnt seem like its been almost a year, hard to believe. Its been a crazy year, for all of us I think. I pray for your family during this time and the upcoming month, I know this past several months has not been easy on any of them but I know you are looking out for them. Miss ya Heath. I know its early but Merry Christmas. Melinda

December 11, 2007

Hey Buddy,
I Know it's been along time but I went to the grave site tonight, and it looked great. I left you a rose. I took My bofriend, I think he is the one. However everyday I look at him I think about you. He has a heart condition too. I feel like you sent him to me to slow me down. If so it worked I finaly feel like I have the love you and Shelly have. I thank god every day I had the chance to have a friend like you. And if you did have something to do with John being brought into my life thank you with all my heart. I miss you.

Please look out for us. I know you are someones guardian angel and if there is any way possible please be ours too.

Always thinking about you and loving you!!
Kristi
Kristi

Kristi
HMPD

December 2, 2007

Well, it's almost here. I know how much you loved Thanksgiving. Even though you had to work it alot of times. As with all the other holidays. Lot's of sacrafices we made for something you loved and held so sacred. Just know that we miss you Heath. I have to smile when I think of last years disaster . Chloe breaking the ceramic top of the stove just three days before the big day. How we scrambled to fix it ourselves and all the cursing and laughing that went into it. We did it though . Also, the next day when Lynn came over and we and turned the music up so loud in the kitchen and we were cooking , laughing , dancing . You yelled at us from upstairs and said we were tooo loud. Finally, when I asked everyone what tasted the best and you quietly replied " if you ask me it tastes like everything was made with a bunch of cuss words. God it was funny. Everyone in the room died laughing. I know that tomorrow will be hard and I'm sure the food will not taste the same. Nothing is the same without you here. You're passing has left a void that can never be filled . I pray that God gives all of some little extra TLC over the next few months.Never Forgotten! Love ya !

November 21, 2007

Hey...its me. 10 months and I still shake my head and think that this can't really have happened. These months have brought so much emotional pain that I will never be the same person I was. You are still missed by so many. I'm so glad that I have had my circle of friends to be there for me . Dad has really stepped in and takes Mason everywhere with him whenever he can. All Mason has to do is pick up the phone and he's right there .Haircuts,shopping,shooting you name it. Well, Moose ..she does her own little thing(MISS INDEPENDENT). We have the best children God ever put breath in. Thanks to their Daddy. I'm sure the holidays will bring lots of emotions and I will do my best to keep them busy and happy. Love ya !

November 12, 2007

"The Badge"
He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.
He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.
Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.
He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.
His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.
He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.
And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.
But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.
Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.
Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.
So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.
In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.
Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.
Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

November 12, 2007

Hey there Heath. Hard to believe it has been 10 months now since you left. Still doesnt quite seem real even though I was here and I know it is...all too real. So much has changed this year....you wouldnt belive some of it but then again!!! We still miss ya. Its def not the same anymore. Kerri and Glenn got married yesturday...very beautiful ceremony. Miss ya!! Talk to ya later.

November 11, 2007

Hey Heath,

It has been so long since we just talked, I miss you so much. I went to your grave yesterday. The tombstone and bench are beautiful. I had a nice visit! I left you a vase of flowers, I hope you like them! It is so peaceful there, I cried when I saw the HMPD patch, I remember when you became a seargent, how happy you were that Shelly had pinned your rank on! You know you were always a light in a dark place for me, I wish you could see me now and how much happier I am, you would be proud! I saw your Dad about a month ago in the auto parts store and they asked him what his name was and before I realized it i said' "It's Harrrold" Just like you used to say it and he looked at me and said," I can just hear him saying that!" We laughed, and then I wanted to cry because I saw the pain on his face. Your Dad is such a special person. Shelly is as beautiful as ever, she is an angel. I just wanted to tell you that you are loved by many people. Until the next time we talk,

Love always,
Beverly Susan Johnson

Beverly "Susan" Johnson
friend

November 5, 2007

Heath,

Good morning. I miss you a lot!

Sandra B.
Friend

November 2, 2007

HEATH,
YOU WILL BE MISSED GREATLY AND THERE ARE NO WORDS TO EXPRESS HOW PEOPLE TRUELY FEEL ABOUT YOU. I CONTINUE TO KEEP YOUR FAMILY IN MY PRAYERS.

MISSY
FORMER HMPD DISPATCHER

October 28, 2007

What's Up Crazy,

I just danced my first competiton pow wow this year and probably my only one. School takes my time, you know? Anyway, I took third and had a good time. Our competition song was amazing, high and fast---like a good northern song should be. You'd love it. Bo honored Ricky Burnett and his son in the arena with Eagle Parts. I turned to my boyfriend Chad and said "That's what Heath did for me." I explained everything to him as the pow wow went on. He knows how much it means to me. Anyway, I don't think I ever told you but thank you for sharing that "peace" with me. I absolutely love that time I'm out there dancing--- it's my time, all my worries dissappear, I'm free, I'm me.....I'm in LOVE. People ask me "So...who was your first love April?" and my answer never changes. It wasn't a man, it has always been dancing. Again, thanks for being the one to share it with me.
Sleep well-April

April
Sister

October 23, 2007

You are remembered today and thank you Sir for your service.

Van De Berghe
NH

October 18, 2007

Thinkin of you today , as everyday!!!

October 12, 2007

Today is another month gone by since the Lord took you home. I speak for the masses when I say that even though time is passing we all miss you as much today as we did 9 months ago. Please continue to watch over those who loved you most !!!!!!!!!

A FRIEND

October 11, 2007

I ran across your name somewhere among the many pages of heroes and wanted to stop at your page and leave a reflection to let you know that I know you are thought of every day by those that love you dearly. You will never be forgotten as you are a true hero and heroes never die. Keep watch over all of your loved ones and also those still out on patrol. You will never be forgotten.

Bob Gordon
Father of Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

September 28, 2007

HEY HEATH!
today we celebrated the retirement of Sgt. Carol Pate. yes she is officially retired now! during the service to her your name came up quite alot. you see, even in honoring another officer, you are still remembered. there were also pictures posted of different times in her life, and right in the middle of them was a picture of Carol, you, me, Andy Cone, and Greg White, together. At that time I started thinking about you and my personal feelings. Also last week, myself and Lee took the attorneys out and retraced all the steps that were taken on January 11, 2007. that was real emotional for me, and you probably know why.
There was a Benefit Motorcycle Ride in your honor, in Hamlet N.C. I started not to go, until Shelly and your Mom & Dad said they were going. I then decided that someone from the Police Department should be there as well. It ended up being myself and Dan Pickler riding together to the ride. Your Dad also borrowed a Bike from Jack, and rode there. Your Dad and Samantha rode in the Parade with me and Pick. We had a great time, even though it was 100 degrees! I had the opportunity to visit one on one with your mom and dad, a couple of weeks ago. We talked a great deal about that day and what happened. I hope with all that we discussed that it was some relief for them. At least they seemed to be a little better after our talk. Your Dad gave me a ring that he said was yours. I was indeed honored to receive it. He told me that he found it in your truck, after he was involved in a accident (hit from behind). He insisted that i have it. When the opportunity arrises, I will wear it with pride.
I, like everyone here at HMPD, miss you being here to tell jokes, or to do "your thang".
Just wanted to let you know what has transpired recently.
Until the next time we talk, or meet, I miss you my friend.
Lt. M.A. Phillips

LIEUTENANT MARK PHILLIPS
HOPE MILLS POLICE DEPARTMENT

September 28, 2007

whats up heath! hey man just checking your site and reading all the wonderful reflections your family and friends left for you. i wanted you to know that i went by your grave site tonight and seen your tombstone. heath it was awesome. when i saw the officer on his knee i almost started to cry, but i was able to hold it in. heath i want you to know that shelly did an outstanding job picking it out. the fallen hero and badge looked amazing. you would be so proud of it. by the way do not blame me for mason liking wrestling. anyway i just wanted to tell you that you should be proud of your new monument that was placed at your resting place. take care bro!

greg
fpd

September 28, 2007

Heath...hey I stopped by and saw you the other day...it was only my second time out there since the day you were laid to rest. Its very beautiful and peaceful there. I know you are happy with it. Thank you for being the wonderful person you always were, I dont think you realized how much you meant to everyone! I hope you do now. Talk at ya later my friend.

September 24, 2007

Heath,

I saw your mom, dad and Samantha last night. Your mother is as precious as you are! She has the most beautiful smile (Just like you) each time I see her she is smiling. I know how deeply she misses you...she is so strong, but most of all she is kind! Your daughter is beautiful and as sweet as I imagined she would be. I miss you a lot! Help us all heath...life is so unfair sometimes but I know if God brings me to something he will bring me through it....I'm trying to keep my faith....please watch over everyone from where you are....we could use the help. Ms. Hardin you are one of the nicest people I've ever met. Thank you for taking the time to talk to me when we run into one another, it means a lot to me! I respected Heath so much and appreciated his kindness even more. If ever you need anything please let me know. You all take care and know that your son was and still remains a blessing for me and many others. May God continue to bless you're family! With my heartfelt appreciation for the only HERO I've ever known! In loving memory!

Sandra B
Friend

September 24, 2007

Well, we finally got your tombstone and bench out at the graveside. It's taken what seems forever to get it out there. Your foot marker and vases will follow in about 8 to 10 weeks. I hope they will be there for Christmas. That would be the best gift ever for me. Heath, I don't know what I would do if I didn't have our friends. Joy took the morning to be with me out at the graveside while they put the markers there. She and Caden kept me from totally losing it. That was by far one of the saddest days so far. I wish so bad that you were here. You kept me together and I miss that so very much ! Love you, Heath Hardin ... I always will.

September 23, 2007

Heath~
This is a poem I cam across the other day...
Lighthouse
Like a lighthouse in the night,your love beams down on me;
No longer do I flounder in life's murky, storm-tossed sea. The waves that rise above my head, edged with frothy foam, no longer push me downward, but bear me safely home. And I grow calm, who was afraid, I sense Your presence near and faith and hope and love replace my previous doubt and fear. You've become my beacon, Lord, whose flame is strong and bright, forever incandescent, like a lighthouse in the night!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
No longer shall the sun be your light by day, nor the brightness of the moon shine upon you at the night; the Lord shall be your light forever, your God shall be your glory.
Isaiah 60:19
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I know that your smile was a beam! That smile helped more than you will ever know. It was always followed by a kind word or a crazy joke that would make you laugh. Thank you for being a great friend. You would always listen and help in any way that you could. In some way I still feel your presence when we gather with your family! You are still there guiding each of us closer together to help each other.
Keep a watch over ALL of us! We miss you so much!

F. Phillips
Friend

September 22, 2007

Heath,

Just wanted to stop by and say hi! I saw your father last night, he's such a nice person! You are the luckiest person I've ever known....you're family is the most decent I've ever met! I know where you got the "IT" factor from! Such sweet, accepting, thoughtful people! Wouldn't it be so nice if all families had what your's have? I pray for all your friends, co-workers and family, daily! Keep them safe....funny how things turn out for some and others have such a difficult time.....I wish the best for all that read these words...God bless every police officer in the world! I appreciate you all for keeping us safe! In lovong memory of a real Hero!

Sandra B
Friend

September 18, 2007

Never forgotten~ Rest in peace. God Bless your family.

September 16, 2007

HEY HEATH JUST STOPING BY FOR A FEW TO READ THE REFLECTIONS THAT ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY WROTE YOU.YOU ARE A SPECIAL PERSON AND YOU MADE US ALL A BETTER PERSON. I STOP BY THE CEMETARY FROM TIME TO TIME AND IT IS SO PEACEFUL THERE. WE MISS YOU MAN,

C.D.REA
CCSO

September 16, 2007

Heath Hardin....I can't beleieve you're gone...Its already been 8 months. I wish none of this was happening. You are missed so much its unbeleivable! But you left behind a wonderful family. Shelly is such a strong, beautiful woman. Please continue to give her strength, and continue to look over her and your beautiful kids! I Love you and Miss you!!!

Back Cave ;)

September 14, 2007