Thomas B. Harding Jr.

Thomas B. Harding, Jr.
May 7, 1933 - November 5, 2024
Thomas Bennett Harding, Jr. passed away on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, leaving a legacy of service in his 91 years on this Earth. Born in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Thomas B. Harding and Arlena (Evans) Harding, he was the youngest of two children. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Alice June Harding. At the age of 14, he met "the little girl next door" when the Lawson Family moved to Starke, Florida. Four years later, Alice Louise Lawson became the love of his life. Married for nearly 69 years, Tom was the ultimate gentleman and continually modeled sacrificial love for his wife and family.
From a young age, service was of paramount importance to Tom. He loved helping his father, a Merita bread delivery man, on his daily distribution route. In 1951, he graduated from Bradford County High School where he ran track, played baseball, and played the cornet and also the baritone in the marching band. He began studying engineering at the University of Florida; however, his deep sense of service led him to enlist in the US Air Force during the Korean War. Tom proudly served his country in the Department of Defense for 36 years and 8 months, both as a civilian and in the military. For 10 years in the Air Force, Tom was an Analyst Specialist as a Radio Intercept Operator, earning the National Defense Service Medal. As a federal civilian, Tom continued to serve his country as a Systems Analyst. After his retirement from government service, Tom worked in fiber optics at Ciena, retiring a second time, after 10 years. Throughout his life, Tom's work ethic was strong. He always gave his best, whatever the task.
Tom enjoyed watching football, especially the college bowl games on New Year's Day (Go Gators!). He bowled, ice skated, and played softball. He was an umpire for his sons' little league teams. He loved music and, along with his wife, infused the love of music to his children. A trumpet player himself, Tom played with his sons and loved listening to them play. True to his generous heart, Tom recorded his children's band concerts on the school's behalf so that vinyl records could be pressed. Tom was also a CB radio operator, boasting Florida Gator as his handle, and frequently helped others in distress through his network.
Tom and his family served the Lord at Severn Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a deacon and served in many areas, especially helping with youth choir tours. He was a founding member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Gambrills, MD, where he ministered as a deacon, the treasurer, and Sunday School Secretary, among many other areas. Although not an official position at Emmanuel, Tom was the de facto greeter, the first face to welcome everyone. True to his serving nature, he stood at the door just so he could open it for every person and give them his great big smile. He would even use his giant umbrella to walk people in from the parking lot on rainy days. Wherever there was a need to be filled, you could count on Tom. From working the sound and lights during choir and drama presentations to copying the bulletins every week to running random errands, Tom was your man.
Most of all, Tom deeply loved the Lord and his family. He left a legacy of faith and service that profoundly influenced his children and extended family. His strong belief in living generously led him to support numerous opportunities and organizations that provide financial support to those in need. As a father and granddad, he deeply enjoyed spending time with family, whether in person, by phone, or via video chat. He was so proud of each and every endeavor, always making the maximum effort to support in person. He truly put others' needs before his own, with never a complaint. For Tom, it was an honor to help.
He is survived by his devoted wife Alice, children Debra Rybarczyk (Bob), Don Harding (Marilyn), Jim Harding (Arlisa), and Alicia Arlen (Dave), 19 grandchildren and their spouses, and 32 great-grandchildren. Tom's descendants number 64 and counting. He is also survived by three nieces and one nephew and their spouses and children.
In lieu of flowers, consider modeling Tom's generous spirit with a donation to Mission:Dignity. This organization financially assists retired ministers and wives in tremendous financial need. Donations may be given online at www.guidestone.org/Mission-Dignity.