Kathryn Francis Durham Stuard, 65, of Midland, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, at her beloved ranch in Junction, Texas, with her daughter by her side and surrounded by the love of her devoted husband of 27 years, John Stuard. A celebration of Kathryn's life will be held on February 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Life Fellowship Midland church in Midland, Texas followed by a reception at the Midland Racquet Club at 1:00 p.m.  Celebration of Life services in Junction, Texas will be announced once confirmed. 

Kathryn was born in Midland on August 26, 1960, to the late Fredda Turner Durham and Lynn Dover Durham, Sr. She graduated from Howie Academy in Howie-in-the-Hills, Florida, in 1978 and earned her degree from Texas Christian University in 1982, where she was a proud member of Zeta Tau Alpha. After college, she returned to Midland with Mark Paul Hardwick, devoting herself to raising their five children and creating a purposeful life rich in community and friendship. 

Kathryn lived with unmistakable energy and grace. She was known for her fierce tennis game at the Midland Country Club and Midland Racquet Club, but even more for her generous spirit, quick wit, and the warmth she brought into every room. She had a rare gift for making people feel welcome and seen—whether through her volunteer work, her deep and lasting friendships, or the simple joy she found in gathering with others. 

 A lifelong learner, Kathryn earned her master's degree in education from Sul Ross State University in 1998. She went on to volunteer with CASA and M.H.M.R., later working as a bilingual therapist. Her work reflected both her sharp intellect and deeply caring heart. 

Those who knew Kathryn understood that her intellect ran as deep as her beauty. When curiosity called—whether earning a graduate degree or obtaining her pilot's license—she answered without hesitation. Yet her greatest accomplishment, and the role she cherished above all, was being a mother. Her five children were her heart, her pride, and her life's greatest joy. 

Kathryn was preceded in death by her sister, Juliette Durham. She is survived by her loving husband, Johnny Ray Stuard; her children: Austin Hardwick and his wife, Stacey; Shannon Hardwick Dickinson and her husband, Kevin; Turner Hardwick and his wife, Elaine; Meredith Hardwick Fauteux and her husband, David; and Caroline Hardwick; as well as seven beloved grandchildren—Henry Turner Hardwick, George Glenn Hardwick, Frances Elizabeth Green, Felix Cole Dickinson, Hadley Ruth Hardwick, Audrey Graham Hardwick, and Faye Lynn Fauteux—each carrying her love in a special way. She is also survived by her brothers, Fred Durham and family; Kevin Durham and family; and Lynn Durham, Jr. and family; her sister, Janet Durham Sam and family; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved deeply. 

Kathryn will be remembered for her boundless love of life, steadfast faith in Christ, and devotion to family and friends. Her laughter, kindness, and light live on in the many hearts she touched and in the communities she loved—Midland and Junction, Texas, and Indian Shores Beach, Florida. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Kimble County Library in Junction, Texas, where Kathryn served on the board, or to the Fredda Turner Durham Children's Museum in Midland, Texas. Kathryn held a special love for giving at Christmastime; in her memory, please consider adopting a family in need during the Christmas season. Services with integrity, pride, and honor are under the direction of Kimble Funeral Home. (325) 446-3076