Robert W. Harding, Jr.

Robert W. Harding, Jr., 88, of Marathon, NY, affectionately known by his grandchildren as “Papa”, passed away peacefully at home in Owego, NY on January 1, 2025. 

Bob was born in Marathon, NY on March 9, 1936, the son of the late Robert W. Harding, Sr, and the late Eloise Hargrave Jayne. In his early adult years, he and his brother, Pete, painted many homes around the Marathon area. After working for the Marathon Metal company he retired from IBM in 1993. 

He was known to his family and friends by his quiet strength, love of God, and the ability to fix just about anything. In his later years he enjoyed painting, traveling, camping and playing golf. He was a past member of the First Baptist Church, Marathon, Bible Baptist Church, Cortland, First Baptist Church, Killawog and Bethel Baptist Church, Vestal, NY. He served in these churches in a variety of capacities from deacon to Sunday School teacher, to building maintenance. 

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Donna Reynolds Harding. He is also survived by his 2 children, Dr. Kurt (Becky, deceased) Harding and Kevin (Kelly) Harding. His legacy continues through his 6 grandchildren, Dr. Aaron (Amanda) Harding, Kyle (Emily) Harding, Dr. Joel (Jessa) Harding, Zachary Harding, Kalyn (Joseph) Comings and Karyn (Ben) Mauch. He is also survived by his 13 great grandchildren, whom he cherished, along with several nieces and nephews. 

He is predeceased by his brother Paul “Pete” (Gladys) Harding and sister Jean (Archie) Underwood. 

A memorial graveside service is planned for Friday, April 25, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Marathon Cemetery and is open to the public. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to his wife at 60 Front Street, Owego, NY, 13827. Any donations may be sent to Bethel Baptist Church, 300 N. Jensen Rd, Vestal, NY 13850.