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Norman A. Harding Jr.
Norman A. Harding Jr.
Obituary
Guest Book
Norman Harding Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
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January 16, 2010
Barbara, I was so sorry to hear about about Norman. I know he will be missed. I have known both you and Norman all my life and remember all the good times in school and on Carroll St. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family and Laurice. Fannie Williams Rae
Jim Gaudet
January 12, 2010
To the family of Norman Harding. I am so sorry I was unable to make the services due to illness. My heart and soul was there, because we have lost a great brother. I suspect he is now checking to see if there are any crimes to investigate in heaven.
Nick Harding
January 11, 2010
Uncle Norman & Aunt Barbara ... What a team!
I grew up almost 900 miles from Norman … so it’s amazing, that someone could have such an impact on who I am. What a testament to him … that he could have that much influence over people. It’s no wonder Sgt. Harding was able to get so many confessions.
I am the eldest of 3 brothers, as was my uncle (that is one thing that we have in common). I am often asked about my love for hunting and fishing and where it came from. I can honestly say that it was because of the admiration that I had for my uncle Norman and my cousin Andy. I always looked up and admired them. My father, my best man, and Norman’s brother, CP, is my hero. His hero was Norman. So confident … so smooth … so influential.
He always made you feel like you were the only person in the room.
I spent many unforgettable summers in Richmond and at Lake Gaston with Norman. I … like my Uncle, played football. I spent a week with a few of my best friends and football teammates at the lake with him before my senior year. It should be noted that it was one of the most memorable weeks in all of our lives. If you know Norman, you can only imagine the type of host he was.
I never really met my mother. She passed when I was very young. I am so inspired and appreciative of all the letters that her friends and family wrote to me about her. I feel as though I know her. Norman has that power. People that might not have ever met him are drawn to his “bigger than life” personality. I was cautious before, knowing that my mother was looking down on me … now I have to be extremely cautious knowing that both of them are keeping an eye on me.
Thank you Uncle Norman. You will always be with me.
Chance, Bethany, Dylan and Summer … you are so blessed to have had such a Grandfather. What a great man. He made all of us better people. To say he lived a full life is an understatement. He was so much bigger than that.
I’d be remised if I didn’t mention Aunt Barbara. Norman was the perfect complement to you, and you were the perfect complement to Norman. There is no chance he would be who he was without you. You are both so special. Thank you for being part of my life.
Shelton Webb
January 11, 2010
Norman will be missed, this is to express my sympathy.
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Me and Bubba
CP Harding
January 11, 2010
On behalf of our family, I want to thank everyone for their comments about Norman Harding Jr. …..my big brother.
I called him Bubba all my life.
He was a graduate of Greensville County High School where he excelled at football. He once picked up a fumble and ran for a 70 yard touchdown. He was my hero, he was my big brother, my Bubba.
He served his country for four years in the Air Force and he had a distinguished career as a Richmond Police Officer. As a Homicide Detective he caught and put away some of the real bad guys in Richmond. We were all very proud of him.
For the last two years he was living on borrowed time. We all knew that. When he first got his heart pump he was one of only 17 people in the country who had one. It kept him alive so we were thrilled. But the heart pump meant he couldn't do some of the things he loved to do. He couldn't go far from home, he always had to have the "batteries" with him. The "batteries" that powered the heart pump to keep him alive. We can only imagine the constant pressure on everyone in the family to make sure that everything was working properly and that there were always fresh batteries. That "beep" meant that the batteries needed to be changed right away wherever he was.
My brother spent much of the last four months at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. We expected him to come home every week but there was one complication, one infection, after another. He hated it but Barbara and the rest of his family were by his side. They kept him going.
He came home on Friday, January 1st. I had an opportunity to talk with him on Sunday, January 3rd. He sounded weak but positive and he was thrilled that he had been able to watch football on TV. My mother spoke to him as well and called me later to tell me how good he sounded. She had planned a trip to go to Richmond to see him on Wednesday.
He died early in the morning on Tuesday, January 5. Andy called to tell me and he said….everything just shut down except the heart pump.... it kept pumping. I had the unenviable job of calling my Mother to tell her.
She had already lost two children…..now she had lost three. That’s not supposed to happen, we’re not supposed to outlive our children.
Our family has faced death many times before. We’ve lost brothers and sisters, fathers, and mothers and husbands and wives. I’ve learned a lot about grief but I’ve also learned something about the impact of grief on good friends. I’ve learned that good friends grieve and suffer too. But I’ve always been struck by the fact that good friends don’t get expressions of sympathy. There is nothing in the paper that says that this person is survived by this good friend or that good friend. Good friends don’t get the pats on the back and the hugs and they don’t get the sympathy cards. They are often left to carry the heavy burden of grief all alone. With that in mind….Our Family wants to extend our sympathy to all of you just as you have extended your sympathy to us. you are suffering too…you are grieving too…I know because I met many of you over the last few days as we were saying goodbye to my brother at services in Richmond and Emporia. And I have read many of your comments about my brother here in this Guest Book. We are sorry for your loss as you are sorry for ours.
We will all grieve for my brother for a long time. Our grief will subside little by little and give way to happy memories, many happy memories.
In the months and years to come, from time to time something will remind us of him. We might see someone who looks like he looked, or we might hear someone say something that he used to say. We might meet someone named Norman, or Nornie, or Bubba, or someone might fix some barbecue like he used to make. When that happens, it’s okay to smile and remember all the happy times we had with him. That’s the way he would have wanted it. But for now to get us through our grief we need remember a few things.
We need to remember that ….Norman Anderson Harding Jr. lived a good life.
He served his country in the Air Force and he served the people of Richmond as one of their finest.
We need to remember that
He died in Richmond…not in a hospital in Maryland.
We need to remember that
He will never have to hear that battery beep again.
We need to remember that
He had lots of friends and co-workers from the Richmond Police Force who had an undying respect for him and the work he did.
We need to remember that he had a family that loved him very much.
And we need to remember that
The love of his life….his wife Barbara was by his side through all that he went through.
Thank you so much for all of your kind words and your thoughts…..Thank you so much for caring about my big brother, my Bubba.
Cindi (House) Mullis
January 11, 2010
Barbara,Angela,Andy,Aunt Laurice, & C.P.,
So sorry.
Thought we were going to get there but it didn't work out. Norman Jr. was well-loved on this earth, but that was just the beginning. I pray you take comfort in the knowledge that you'll meet again some day.
Love and prayers to all.
Dale Curtis
January 10, 2010
Mrs. Harding & Family,
My prayers are with you at this difficult time. Norman was a close friend and a mentor to me in my early years in the police dept. When I chose my direction in the dept. I fondly recall Norman many times trying to get to transfer to homicide. Norman taught me so much over the years and I will forever hold him head and shoulders over most all police officers I have known. Just remember this, you can't go home until your work is finished. God was satisfied that Norman had finished all his work here on earth and it was time for him to come home. Norman is now being rewarded for all his dedication to the citizens of Richmond and his love for his fellow man. Norman was a man to be proud of. I miss now but know I will see him again some day. God Bless you and your family.
William Stacy Jr
January 9, 2010
Norman was a good friend and co-worker with my father from the richmond police department. My father passed away in october but always spoke highly of norman. I often spoke with norman at the auctions and found him to be respectful and thoughtful. He will be missed.
John Vickery,Jr
January 9, 2010
Barbara,Andy&Allison,Angela & Jimmy,Grandchildren,I know that words can't ease the pain but as Norman told me when we were fishing if you don't have your pole in the water you will never be first.Norman was always first,as A father husband & gandfather.I have A lot of memories of Norman, fishing,hunting,bingo & trying to win the big lottery. I also remember that snoring when I stayed with him down at the lake.My condolences go out to the whole family.
Billie Pair, Jr.
January 9, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. May God give you and your family comfort and peace.
Billie and Joyce Pair
Mechanicsville, Va. 23116
Rose Bookman
January 8, 2010
Norman was a devoted detective and a southern gentleman in every aspect. I remember Norman as a rookie walking a beat on Broad Street and rising through the ranks to Detective. Norman always had a smile and a kind word.
We, my late husband and I would see him occasionly fishing in the Chickahominy Lake and exchange fishing stories. As well as exchange the catch of the day.
May the memories, you and the family has be as vivid as the memories of all the friends Norman touched in so many ways as an officer for the City of Richmond and all the friends he encountered during his tenure.
God bless each of you and may your memories comfort you and help you through this difficult time.
Rose Bookman
Retired Court Clerk
City of Richmond
Jill Pollard
January 8, 2010
Chance,
We at Ecoff hurt for your loss. From reading the entries of the guest book your Papa was a very respected man. We know you will miss him. As he leaves his legacy to the world sustain yourself with fond memories. Hold tight to the thought that we are here for you.
Love,
Jill Pollard
Edward Spence
January 8, 2010
Though I haven't seen Norman in very fond memories of him in Emporia. His dancing at the canteen, after football dinners at his father's restaurant and the many rides he gave me because we lived near each other. "Big Normie" was one of the really good guys. My Deepest sympathies to Barbara and the family.
Monalisa Ward
January 8, 2010
To The Harding Family,
I had the opportunity to work as a transcriber in the Detective Division back in the early 80's. I transcribed so many reports and interviews for him. He was one of the nicest guys in the Division. His kindness and professionalism will always be remembered.
As you go through these trying times just have comfort in knowing that God is with you always. He will carry you through.
January 8, 2010
Dear Barbara,
Wendy and I were saddened to hear of Norman's passing. He was a wonderful man, an excellent Detective and great teacher I will always remember our fishing adventures with great pleasure. Our prayers are with you. Bob Hosick
William Ed Harver
January 7, 2010
I was saddened to hear of Norman's passing. I had the good fortune as a young lieutenant to work with Norman in the Detective Division; he taught me much. He was the consumate professional who gave his all no matter the task. The world has lost a very good man. May the Creator wrap his arms around you.
Teresa Boone
January 7, 2010
I knew Norm from Lake Gaston. He was always friendly and generous with his hunting bounty. One particular winter when money was tight, and meat prices were high, I had plenty of venison thanks to Norm.
His kindness will never be forgotten.
May he rest in peace.
Jim Gaudet
January 7, 2010
Its hard for me to except the passing of Norman- He and I was the Homicide Squad in Richmond for many years-We would go on a case, we never had to tell each other what to do, we wanted to do the job right and somehow make things better. I could always count on him to be on top of things, I never had to watch my back and he never had to. We were not only partners we were like brothers. To Barbara, Angela and Andy you can be proud your husband and father was an example we all set our goal to be. God Bless and keep you. Jim Gaudet
Debbie Oldham ( Keith)
January 7, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
James Wheeler
January 7, 2010
I have not seen Norman in over 50 years. I went to school with him at Greensville county High and also in Emporia Elementary. I just wanted to send my deepest sympathy upon his passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family at this time. I am sure he is in a far better place and at peace.
Lori Spinner
January 7, 2010
Chance,
My son Trevor Spinner was in your fourth grade class two years ago. I wanted to let you know how sorry I was to read of the passing of your grandfather. We just lost our grandfather in August and it was truly devistating. Please know that you and your loved ones are in my prayers. Take care
January 7, 2010
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Faye Jenkins Harris
Huey Singleton
January 7, 2010
Norman and I worked together for many years and were close friends. He was a gentleman and good police officer. He will be missed. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Bob Walker
January 7, 2010
My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Norm. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. I worked with Norm for many years on the department. He served with honor, distinction and courage. I had an enormous amount of respect for his ability and dedication. There were many who could tell you of his good deeds. The world could use more Norman Hardings.
January 7, 2010
Norman was one of the most outstanding police officer,well liked by all. He and I retired the same month and day. I asked Norman to come to the party that IAD was doing for me. The good Lord has him in a better place, no pain, no suffing. Norman we will miss you. Jack Farmer, Retired Detective
E W Mozingo
January 7, 2010
Norman was a very dedicated officer with great knowledge of his job. It was truly a pleasure to work with him. I extend my sincere sympathy to the Harding family.
Bob McCulloch
January 7, 2010
I had the honor of meeting Norman while I was a recruit in the Richmond Police Academy. Norman was an excellent Instructor and we learned so much from him. I left the Bureau and went with another agency; however, what I learned from Norman was with me during my entire police career.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of sorrow. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Retired Virginia State Police
tim mackin
January 7, 2010
to the family of det norman harding. I read with such saddness of the passing of det harding. i was reading his obti it took me back to dec 3rd 1976 when i first met mr harding. he was the lead detective in my brothers homicide. a knock came to our door in the early morn and there was this was this giant of a man standing there. he was there to inform us my brothers passing. normam worked tirless until this case was solved. he never left our family hanging during this whole time. the investigation the trial an the convictions of the 3 men that did this. ill never forget the kindness an compassion he showed during the whole proccess. he was a good det an a great man . may god be with you an your family
January 6, 2010
Barbara and Family
We are so sorry to hear about your
lost.Norman was a good man we did not
know him long but glad to have known
him for awhile.Try to think of the good
times and that could ease the pain.
Lucille Kimball & Randy Clary Amelia Va
Jim Crotty
January 6, 2010
Detective Sergeant Norman Harding was pure goodness, and pure Homicide. He brought honor to the most honorable of our police responsibilities. Like all officers, I was always proud and reassured to be in his presence. With his passing, a historic piece of a bygone era of policing leaves us. He was a dogged, pavement pounding, door knocking, suspect interviewing, old school Homicide Detective. Today, when a case goes unsolved, anywhere, I still think "Harding would have solved it." Regardless of his respected position as a premiere Homicide Detective, he'd back up a patrolman on a "10-31, 10-32" call, any day, or night. We'll miss you Detective Harding.
Thomas Leonard
January 6, 2010
Norman Harding was the reason I set my eyes on becoming a Homicide Investigator. He was one of the finest in the country. He was a decent caring man who dedicated his life to help others. Norman my friend you will be missed by many. Now that you are standing watch again. Our heart go out to your family and friends.
January 6, 2010
Norman was a talented, dedicated investigator. He was a great teacher and always willing to take the time to share his knowledge and develop younger officers. It was a pleasure to have worked with him and shared stories at the RRPOA.
My thoughts and prayers are with Norman and the family.
God Bless,
Buddy Bass
Rick Andrews
January 6, 2010
It was my pleasure to have known and worked with Norman for several years in the Detective Division. Norman was an excellent investigator who always gave 100% to his investigations, family and friends.
January 6, 2010
Mrs. Harding, Angela and Andy
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I will never forget the great times ive had with your family. Great Memories!
Larry Snellings
BOB MALLORY
January 6, 2010
I AM SORRY TO HEAR OF NORMANS PASSING..I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIM AS CONWAY..WHILE IN KANSAS BRING A PRISONER BACK TO VA PEOPLE IN THE HE AIRPORT,THOUGHT HE WAS CONWAY TWITTY.HE WILL BE MISSED...
January 6, 2010
I had the honor of meeting Norm Harding while I was a police recruit in the RPD 6th academy. He was an outstanding man. My prayers and condolences are extended to his wife and family. He will be missed but take comfort in knowing that earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. I will continue to pray that God hold this family in his hands.
Retired Captain Gerard A. Dabney, Henrico County Police
Mark Segal
January 6, 2010
I had the honor of working with Sgt. Harding in Detective Division. He was a great man and dedicated to his craft, but his real passion was his family. He will be missed.
William Shuman
January 6, 2010
Such a great detective, I along with many others will miss him. So sorry to hear this, just turned on my computer while stopped just South of Miami.
Frank Misiano
January 6, 2010
I am remembering Norman as a decent man and a good Police Officer. May God be with him as he passes on and to his family that will miss him.
Lt. Tim Morley
January 6, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with the family in their loss. Sgt. Harding was a legend around the Richmond P.D. when I was a rookie, dealing with the Briley brothers and the Greeen Acres murders (among others). He was always ready to help the new officers and share his expertise with them. He was a great guy. May he rest in peace.
Chuck Bennett
January 6, 2010
I had the honor of working with Norman for many years on the RPD. He was a dedicated police officer and an excellent investigator who was eager to share his skills with other, less experienced officers. He will be missed, and I offer my sincere sympathy to his wife and children.
Don Schultz
January 6, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Norman. He was one of the finest well thought of police officers. It was my pleasure working with him for many years. My prayers are with him and family.
Retired Detective
Don Schultz
Malvin Caldwell Jr
January 6, 2010
Sorry to hear of your loss. I meet SGT Harding as a young recrute. He was an outstanding instructor but I will always remember him for setting the example of what a good police officer should be. Rest in peace team-mate.
Ashton Brock
January 6, 2010
I am very sorry for your loss. I never personally worked with Sergeant Harding, but I have heard from many other officers that he was a fine man and investigator. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ashton Brock
Chaplain - John Marshall Lodge #2
Ashton Brock
January 6, 2010
I am very sorry for your loss. I never personally worked with Sergeant Harding but I have heard from many other police officers that he was a fine man and investigator. You are in our prayers during this time of loss.
Ashton Brock
Chaplain - John Marshall Lodge #2
January 6, 2010
Angela,
The immediate shock of your father's passing caused me to pause and wonder what, if anything, I could do for you. If it were possible I would build you a stairway so you could walk right up to heaven and see your father whenever you desired, to continue the love and caring you unselfishly gave to him as you continue enjoying that 'special' relationship. I realize that is not possible but do know my heart aches for you and offers a small comfort in saying that you WILL remember the good times....and his blessing your life with loved ones so that you would still have so much to look foward to each day.....and because of that special place you have for him within your heart, you will always be able to share those joys with him.
John Kleski
Billie Eubank & Chrissie, Candice, Caitlin
January 6, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Debbie East
January 6, 2010
Mrs.Harding,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.Norman was by far my most favorite patient while I worked with Dr.Jennings and his knack for finding things that would help his health always amazed me.Our many conversations about "police work "( as we had many mutual police friends since my husband worked for HPD) will always stay with me.He was a extraodinary man. God bless you and your family.
Beverly & Raymond Parker
January 6, 2010
Remembering the good ole times in Emporia, Va. So sorry to hear of your loss.
Charlie & Marie Henry
January 6, 2010
Please know you are in our prayers at this time. We are thinking of each of you and wishing we could take away the pain of your loss. Your husband and father was a great man and will be missed by all who knew him. My parents thought Norman and Barbara were the best neighbors in the world for the many years they lived next to each other. God bless you Barbara,Angela and Andy and family. Charlie & Marie Henry
Elaine & Bill Murdock
January 6, 2010
Barbara, Angela & Jimmy, Andy & Allison:
Words cannot come close to the pain that we feel at this time. Our families have enjoyed the best of times together the past 35 years here, at Lake Gaston, and at SML. All those good memories are the ones we need to rely on now. Although it is hard to imagine life without him, he is no longer suffering. His last few weeks were so hard on all of you, but he was a fighter and hung in as long as he could. We are grateful that he made it home for a few days, and got to see all of you, but terribly sad that we didn't get by to visit him like we planned on Monday. Our friendship is a special one, and it will continue on, as we remember all the good times with Norman and all of you. We're here for you.
Rick Pleasants
January 6, 2010
Norman was one of the finest criminal investigators that our profession has seen, but he was also a loyal friend, father and husband. My condolences go out to his wife, Barbara, and his children. May you soon be left with only the many wonderful memories of your time together.
Rick Pleasants
Retired Lieutenat - Richmond Police Dept.
Joe Mitchell
January 6, 2010
I enjoyed working with Norman for many years. He was a good person and a good police officer. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.
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