James L. Harding

James L. Harding, 89 of Carmel, passed away Saturday, May 11, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family.   Jim was born August 8, 1934 in Mt. Vernon, Ohio to the late Paul G. and Hazel C. (McGugin) Harding.  

He graduated Valedictorian from Fort Hood High School (Fort Hood Military Base / Killeen, Texas) in 1952. Where he lettered in Football, Basketball, Baseball, and Track. He was also the President of the Student Council for three years. He attended Ohio State University (Columbus, Ohio) in 1957 where he studied Physics, Math, and Electronics. He then served in the US Air Force from 1957 to 1961 at Patrick Air Force Base / Space Force Base (Coco Beach, Florida).  And in the Air Force Reserves until July 1963.

In 1962, Jim received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics with minors in Physics, Electronics, and Drafting from Ball State University (Muncie, Indiana). He later, in 1977, earned his Master of Science degree; also from Ball State University. He taught Physics, Electronics, Math, and Science at several Ohio and Indiana High Schools throughout his teaching career. Some of the most notable were Mississinewa from 1964 to 1968; Marion from 1969 to 1971; and Eastbrook from 1972 to 1991. He retired from teaching in 1991, after 30 years of service.

Jim was the preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Carolyn M. (Dunn) Harding. And is survived by his three children: Karla (Mitchell) Mabrey, Marla (David) Vaughn, and Michael Harding; and three grandsons: Tyler, Nicholas, and Parker Harding. He was also preceded in death by his siblings; Jack R. Harding, Helen L. (Harding) Cook, Pruett E. Harding Sr, and Paul E. Harding Sr.

A Private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation (www.parkinson.org) or the ALS Foundation (www.als.org).