Tracie Diedra Michelle Hardin made her first journey to Kansas City while still in the womb, transported from St. Louis by her mother; a fitting start for someone who would grow to love traveling. She was born on September 3, 1969, to Ms. Johnnie Jean Anderson and Michael Horskins, and from that day forward, a dynamic life began to unfold.

Tracie spent her early years on Montgall Avenue, attending Mary Harmon Weeks Elementary School. Surrounded by cousins and her older sister, Trina, she developed a deep and lasting love for family and community. When her mother married Roy Addison, Tracie welcomed a new sister, Janae Addison, into the family.

She continued her education at Paseo High School before graduating from Raytown South Senior High School in 1987.

Tracie became a devoted mother to Craig Smith, Jr. (1988) and Courtney Smith (1990), with her first husband, Craig Smith, Sr.

In 2006, she married Darrell Hardin, becoming a beloved bonus mom to Jeremy, Colby, and Tierra Hardin. Around this time, she began to display her life's philosophy proudly and consistently: "Believe." The word could be found throughout her home, a quiet but constant reminder of her faith, her optimism, and her unwavering trust in God's plan. "Believe" wasn't just décor, it was her daily practice.

Rooted in faith and gifted in leadership, Tracie pursued a Bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies and Organizational Leadership from Calvary University. Her professional path reflected her heart for people; working in cheer coaching, administrative roles, church service, and eventually thriving in Human Resources, where she applied both her organizational talents and compassion.

She and her husband brought joy (and flavor) to Kansas City through their gourmet popcorn business, and they frequently traveled together, collecting new friends and rich experiences along the way.

Above all, Tracie found her greatest joy in her role as grandmother to Matthew Smith, King Smith, Mace Smith, Nova Maddox, Kamiyah Hardin, and Raniyah Hardin.

She was also blessed to share love and memories with her paternal siblings, Jonathan (deceased), Frederick (Doobie), Michael, David, and Sharde'.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc .