December 22, 1997 was a day that many residents of the Edgewater and surrounding areas will not forget. School crossing guard, Nancy Hardesty was struck by a vehicle while on duty near the intersection of Central Avenue and Mayo Rd and sadly lost her life. She was loved and adored by many and forgotten by few.
At 1100 hours on December 27, 2019, a memorial was rededicated to the beloved wife, mother, grandmother and protector of the students. The memorial is located in front of the South River High School message board at the entrance to the school complex and it reads: In Memory of Nancy Hardesty June 29, 1946-December 22, 1997 along with A Crossing Guard’s Prayer.
The memorial service was attended by Mrs. Hardesty’s family, current and past Anne Arundel County school crossing guards, the Anne Arundel County Police Department to include Chief Timothy Altomare, the Police Community Relations Committee, the Woodland Beach Volunteer Fire Department, Anne Arundel County Fire Department to include Chief Trisha Wolford and several Anne Arundel County elected officials. The intersection of Central Avenue and Mayo Road was closed to traffic for approximately 15 minutes during the dedication ceremony. Thank you to all for your patience as the ceremony took place.
