25/04/2023
A Fellow of AIFD, an AIFD Foundation Trustee and a friend to many, Wilton Hardy AAF AIFD PFCI passed away on April 19, 2023. Known for his charm and willingness to help others, Wilton was beloved by many in the floral industry.
His love of flowers began as a young teenager, working in a flower shop that over time led to a career that inspired many. An award winning designer, Wilton passionately believed in the importance of professional development for florists and generously shared his knowledge at countless symposia and shows. You may recall his presentation “Up and Down the Scale” where he sang his introduction to “Do-Re-Mi” and then presented a study of scale and proportion that all attending would long remember. You may recall the many blessings that he spoke or sung on our behalf during our final night celebrations at numerous Symposia. He was always there to assist with a question, to offer advice or share an experience in a most thoughtful way.
Wilton believed in giving back. He served as a Trustee of the AIFD Foundation and the Professional Floral Commentators International (PCFI). He served the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) on numerous committees leading to his time as AIFD President in 1990-1991. On a state level, he served Florida State Florists' Association (FSFA) as President. His leadership was inspiring. His contributions numerous. His outreach to others was a way of looking to the future to secure the well-being of the organizations he so dearly loved. You may recall being asked to serve one of several floral organizations, as he had once done, leading you to the accomplishments you hold dear today.
Among numerous honors, he received the Award of Distinguished Service to AIFD in 1994 in recognition of extraordinary service to AIFD, PFCI's Tommy Bright Award in recognition of expert commentary and FSFA's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Wilton is survived by his beloved wife Margaret, his daughter Sharon, his daughter-in-law Bea and extended family and friends. He was predeceased by his son Stephen. Per Wilton's wishes, there will be no memorial service.
The family requests that donations be made, in Wilton's memory, to the AIFD Foundation. Donations may be made online at http://aifdfoundation.org/DonateOnline or mailed to the AIFD Foundation address as noted on the AIFD Foundation website.
Cards and notes of condolence may be sent to the family at:
Margaret Hardy and Family
2704 Pin Oak Court
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Our Deepest Sympathy to Wilton’s family and our Heartfelt Gratitude for Sharing Him with the Floral Industry.
