Rep G. A. Hardaway Sr.

SIMPLE BEGINNINGS

Goffrey Al (“G.A”) Hardaway, Sr was born on June 18, 1954, to the late Willis Lincoln Hardaway, Sr. and the late Alminnie West Hardaway. Raised in a family of educators in Meridian, Mississippi, he was shaped by the values of discipline, faith, and community service. He was nurtured not only by is parents, but also by a close-knit network of aunts, uncles, and cousins who instilled in him a commitment to excellence and a deep reverence for God. 

From an early age, G.A. demonstrated academic promise and determination. He also had a wise range of interests that would continue into adulthood. He joined the Boy Scouts at age 12 – sparking a lifelong appreciation for nature and self-reliance – and distinguished himself as a French horn player, earning recognition at the state level and sparking an appreciation of music both classical and soulful. His Memphis education culminated in his graduation from Central High School.

He continued his studies at Christian Brothers University and the University of Memphis (formerly Memphis State University), ultimately earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from DePaul University in Chicago. 

THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

G.A. possessed a natural entrepreneurial instinct. He consistently sought opportunities where others saw obstacles and approached challenges with creativity and resolve. His ventures included successes in real estate as well as lessons learned from endeavors that did not come to fruition. Through both triumph and setback, he exemplified resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to grow.

Following the passing of his father Willis Sr., G.A. assumed responsibility for managing family real estate holdings, continuing and expanding upon the foundation laid by his parents. 

A MAN OF MEMPHIS

G.A. loved the city of Memphis. He saw vast potential in its culture, its history, and its people and made every effort to be part of it. G.A. participated in various activities across the city. Some of his favorites were the Africa in April festival, the Memphis in May World Championship Cooking Contest, and University of Memphis athletic events.

He also was a member and supporter of a host of organizations and causes across the city. Some of those organizations including but not limited to the 100 Black Men, Memphis Academy of Health Services, Black Business Association, CBU Black Alumni Association, NAACP Memphis Branch, Memphis Urban League, Southern Leadership Conference, Rainbow Push Coalition, Democratic Women of Shelby County, and the Historic Orange Mound Collaborative Group.

THE BIRTH OF A PUBLIC SERVANT

G.A. was deeply rooted in his community and came of age during the Civil Rights Movement, a time of profound transformation in the American South. As one of the first students to attend an integrated Central High School, he experienced firsthand the realities of change, resistance, and progress. These experiences left a lasting imprint and ignited a lifelong commitment to justice and equity.

He initially engaged in political campaigns as a means of contributing to a better Memphis. Over time, he recognized that he could serve his community more directly through elected office. 

In 2007, G.A. ran in a special election for the Democratic nomination for the Tennessee House of Representatives in District 92. He went on to win both the primary and general election, marking the beginning of an accomplished career in public service. 

When asked about his motivations, G.A. often pointed to both his lived experiences and his work in the community. Above all, he emphasized his role as a father, stating, “The politics of today will shape the children’s tomorrow. “This guiding principle was reflected in his tireless advocacy both in Memphis and at the State Capital.

Upon arriving in Nashville, G.A. quickly established himself as a forceful, candid, and outspoken statesman. He did not hesitate to challenge what he believed was wrong or to champion what he believed was right. Over the course of his career, he introduced hundreds of bills spanning criminal justice, public safety, education, local government, and civil justice. Among his legislative efforts was co-sponsorship of measures supporting recall elections for local officials – reflecting his enduring belief in accountability and local control. 

During his time in legislature, G.A. would become known for his punchy lines and phrases. He would express himself in simple but powerful terms that shook you up and made you pay attention: “I can read, I can write, and I ain’t scared.” It was a reflection of both the era that shaped him and the courage that defined his life in public service.