Thomas Harding

HARDING - Thomas, 90, died on September 26 leaving behind a large, extended family. He is survived by Mary, his wife of 16 years. He was predeceased by his wife Eleanor, with whom he had 7 children: Susan (Brian McGinn), Thomas (Theresa),

Maureen, Margaret (Joseph Whelan), William (Christine), Claire (William Keefe), stepdaughters Maggie (James Leiper) and Elizabeth

(Kevin Fox). His youngest son, Peter, died at age 16 months.

Thomas also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren with another one expected in 2023. Additionally, he is survived by 6 step-grandchildren and 2 step-great-grandchildren. The child of Scottish immigrants, Tom Harding grew up in the Bronx and was a devout Roman Catholic. He went to work after graduating from Cardinal Hayes High School and eventually secured a job at Grumman Aerospace. Tom worked his way up from riveter to Executive Director of Materials Management and retired after 38 years with the company. He was particularly proud of his contributions to the Apollo space and the F14 fighter jet programs. In 1973, Tom and Eleanor moved from Richmond Hill in Queens to Shoreham with their children. It was a move he never regretted. Tom became an active member of St. Mark's RC Church, where he became the Business Administrator and led the campaign to enlarge the church. He was also the first recipient of the Diocese of Rockville Centre St. Agnes Award. Tom also enjoyed the beach in Shoreham and taking care of his home. Tom was a fortunate man. He instilled a sense of values in his family and demonstrated a sense of duty and responsibility by supporting others going through rough times. He was generous in spirit and was a frequent contributor to his favorite charities. Tom was proud of his Scottish heritage and leaves behind many cousins in Scotland and will also be missed by nieces and nephews scattered across the United States as well as friends and neighbors. Visitation will be at O.B. Davis Funeral Homes, 1001 Route 25A, Miller Place, NY 11764 on October 2nd, 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm and funeral mass on October 3rd at 10:30 am at St. Mark's R.C. Church, 105 Randall Road, Shoreham, NY 11786