OBITUARY: Richard and Kathryn ‘Kathy’ Harding

Richard and Kathryn “Kathy” Harding passed away peacefully, about an hour apart on August 12, 2023. All who knew Richard and Kathy know of their deep love and devotion to each other for 61 years of marriage.

Richard was born in Nashville, TN on November 23, 1943, to Robert and Ruby Harding. He worked for Metro Nashville Schools as a Vocational Teacher for Overton High School. Teaching was a joy for him, and he always said that he never worked a day in his life.

Kathryn was born in Nashville, TN on August 14, 1942, to Otto and Marie Hawn. She was a devoted member of the Catholic Diocese and worked for them for many years. In 1998, Kathy suffered a devastating stroke that left her paralyzed and unable to speak. Richard retired from Metro schools to take charge of her care and was a devoted and loving caregiver. Although the stroke took away Kathy’s ability to speak, her personality and joy for life was never lost and they had many happy years together.

Richard and Kathy are predeceased by their parents and daughter, Misty. Richard is also predeceased by his brothers, Robert Harding, James Earl Harding and sister, Marie Watson. Kathryn is predeceased by her sister, Carolyn Hawn.

They are survived by their son, Richard “Ricky” Harding, Jr.; daughter, Kelly Slagle, her husband, Jason Slagle; adopted daughter, Charity Baggett; and grandson, Taylor Bryant. Richard is also survived by his sister, Frances Edwards. Kathryn is survived by her sister, Jean Griffith and her husband, Tommy Griffith. They are also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Church of the Holy Rosary, 192 Graylynn Drive, Nashville, TN on Thursday, August 17, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Nashville, TN. https://www.woodbinefuneralhome.com

Memorial Donations may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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