Charles R. Harden

Charles Ray Harden, a beloved father, grandfather, revered businessman, and devoted friend to many, of Brazil, Indiana, passed away peacefully at 4:35 a.m. on Friday, November 29, 2024, at The Gibson Family Center for Hospice Care in Terre Haute, Indiana. He was 71 years old.
Charles was born on March 27, 1953, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to Stephen Harden and Vera Mae (Butler) Harden. He graduated in 1972 from Terre Haute South Vigo High School as part of its first graduating class, after attending Wiley High School. During and after high school, Charles was active in many sports, excelling in pole vaulting. After graduation, he pursued an interest in archaeology, attending courses and working on various excavation sites through Indiana State University.
Charles' early years were marked by hardship, growing up in a family with limited financial means. Despite these challenges, he developed a strong work ethic and a deep determination to improve his circumstances and create a brighter future for himself and those he loved. His childhood fondness for Richie Rich comics sparked his imagination and ignited a lifelong interest in financial success. That passion led him to work at various banks, with Brinks Armored Transport, and ultimately to becoming self-employed. Charles' early business ventures included selling leather goods and other retail merchandise. Over time, his entrepreneurial spirit drove him to create a business focused on cut-out coin jewelry and elongated cents. He expanded further, building a wholesale and retail business dealing in bullion and numismatics, among other specialized products, a legacy that continues today through his son, Steven Harden, who is proudly carrying on the family business.
Charles became a man of deep and enduring faith later in life. He was baptized as a member of the Church of the Nazarene, and his faith provided him with strength and guidance throughout his life. He often expressed a wish that more of his family and friends would come to embrace religion, a hope that continues in spirit.
Charles took great pride in his family and cherished the moments when they were all together. He took particular joy in being a grandfather, a role that brought him immense happiness and fulfillment. His love for travel, especially to the Smoky Mountains area, was another source of joy in his life.
Charles is survived by his son, Steven Junior Harden, and his daughter, Julia Kay Ross, both of Brazil, Indiana; his brother, Harold Harden (Katy) of Terre Haute, Indiana; his sisters, Brenda Lofton (Danny) of Brazil, Indiana, Nancy Rawlings (Dana) of Tucson, Arizona, and Mildred Green of Dallas, Texas. Also surviving are his two cherished grandchildren, Kaitlyn Alyssa Ross and Landon Alexander Briggs, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Doris Stephens and Wilma "Rose" Stewart; and his brothers, Gerald "Buck" Harden, Stephen "Dick" Harden, Maurice "Dude" Harden Sr., Paul Harden, and Ernest "Wayne" Harden Sr.
Visitation will be Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at DeBaun Springhill Chapel, located at 85 E Springhill Drive, Terre Haute, IN 47802. Services will follow at 2:00 p.m., with Reverend Wesley Sampson officiating. A private burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Charles would have appreciated it if you used any contributions to treat your family and friends to a meal, sharing fond memories of him as you spend time together.
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