James William Hardie, 59, of Indianapolis, passed away on February 23, 2025. He was born on October 19, 1965, in Edinburgh, Scotland to James Alexander and Brenda (McKay) Hardie.

Jim graduated from Lawrence North High School in 1984, having been a valuable player in the school’s baseball and football teams. Prior to graduating, Jim became a volunteer firefighter for the City of Lawrence. He officially joined the Lawrence Fire Department in 1983, being assigned to Unit #108. Rising in rank from Lieutenant to Battalion Chief and eventually to Deputy Chief of Operations, Jim retired from LFD in 2023 after 40 years of fearless service to the community. In the midst of his career with LFD, Jim was also an Indianapolis Motor Speedway Firefighter, a Rescue Diver, Dive Team Commander, PI Officer at Lawrence Central, assisted in the Firefighters Family Assistance Program, and was a former Lawrence Reserve Police Officer. 

Outside of his working life, Jim also had many passions and hobbies, achieving numerous awards during his lifetime. An avid fisherman, Jim was a member of the Eastside BassMasters, USA Bass, Stars and Stripes Bass Circuit, and was a former member of Fishers of Men. 

Jim is survived by his wife, Liisa “Judy” (Cira) Hardie; children Alexi Hardie, Brayden Hardie, and Harrison Barnett; siblings Pauline Hardie and Raymond Hardie; as well as numerous additional family members and friends close enough to be family. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Brenda Hardie. 

Being an immensely positive influence throughout the City of Lawrence, Jim has touched the lives of countless individuals. Those individuals remember Jim as a compassionate mentor, a selfless hero, and a loving friend. 

He especially served all of these roles for his wife and children – the most important achievements in his storied life. 

Those who wish to honor Jim’s legacy may join together on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Lawrence Central High School in the Auditorium. Visitation will be from 1pm to 4pm, and a Funeral Ceremony will be held from 4pm to 5pm. Per Jim’s request, cremation services will follow. In lieu of flowers, it is requested by Liisa, Alexi, Brayden, and Harrison to consider making a memorial contribution in Jim’s honor to the Lawrence Firefighters Family Assistance Program, 9001 E. 59th St. Suite 302, Indianapolis, IN 46216. 

Please sign Jim’s online guestbook at sealsfuneralhome.com