Molly Austin McHard

Molly Austin McHard died peacefully, surrounded by her family, in Houston, Texas on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
All those who knew Molly loved her instantaneously. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and her concern for others was her most defining characteristic. Molly was born in Houston, Texas on July 7,1985 to Marguerite Erwin McHard and Samuel Everett McHard III. She was baptized at First Presbyterian Church of Houston and was an active participant in the church youth group. She attended River Oaks Baptist School, Lamar High School, and Colorado State University, earning her BA in Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Philosophy.
Molly adored children and was beloved by her students and co-teachers at St. Andrew's Children's Place and The Fay School in Houston, and Graland Country Day School in Denver, Colorado. She also spent a season serving residents at The Brookwood Community. Known for her minimalist lifestyle, Molly prioritized people over possessions.
Molly grew up sailing on Galveston Bay with her friends at TCYC. She was a skilled athlete and an outdoor enthusiast. An avid gymnast in her youth, she could be found doing back handsprings in the front yard and climbing trees to hang Christmas lights. When her gymnastics career ended in early high school, she jumped right into diving, cheerleading, lacrosse, hip-hop dance, and completed a marathon.
In her college years at Colorado State University, she explored all that Colorado had to offer and spent her time outside of class in the Rocky Mountains summiting 14ers, bouldering, hiking, and skiing. At CSU she was an active participant in a campus ministry, Reformed University Fellowship. Molly never started a day without reading her thread worn copies of Mother Teresa and Jesus Calling. She was the most thoughtful soul and never missed the opportunity to acknowledge a birthday, anniversary, or other special day. Though she endured great health struggles in her adult years, her faith, resilience, and compassion remained steadfast. To the very end, she was focused on the needs of those around her, expressing love and concern with countless handwritten notes and gifts.
Molly will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her parents, Marguerite and Sam McHard; sisters, Eliza Tenney and husband Nathan, Elaine McHard; and nephew, Sam Tenney. Molly maintained meaningful relationships with her extended family, including her many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Molly's life will be honored on Monday, July 7th at 10:30 AM in the Sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, 5300 Main Street, Houston, TX 77006. Livestream is available at www.fpchouston.org/memorials. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Bo's Place, 10050 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77054 or any school, church, or charity of your choice.