Barbara E. Harding

Barbara E. Harding passed away peacefully on March 11, 2019. Born in London, England on April 27, 1930 to Mildred and James Atkinson, Barbara grew up in London becoming a school teacher after university. She met John Harding, the love of her life, and they married in 1960. The couple moved to Cuckfield, West Sussex and raised five children.

In 1980, the entire family emigrated to Austin, Texas where John founded a new road construction business. The family resided in the Balcones Country Club area and joined St. David’s Episcopal Church. In 1993 John passed away suddenly and for the next 26 years Barbara resiliently and courageously continued on as the matriarch of the family. Barbara was a keen tennis and bridge player, antique collector, avid reader and had a large circle of friends. She was a lover of nature especially birds and flowers. Even to the end she kept her infectious laugh and great sense of fun. Barbara always thrived when surrounded by family and friends and she remained the center of our family. For these reasons and many more she will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Barbara is survived by her five children and 12 grandchildren: Paul Harding and wife Lisa and their children, Colin and Rachel; Sarah Bontempo and her husband Greg and their children, Claire, Abby and Emma; Kate Harding and her children Ethan, Dawson and Madelynn; Chris Harding and his sons Preston and Heathcliff; and Mike Harding and his wife Jennifer, and their children Travis and Kayla. Barbara is also survived by her loving companion Bob Barstow.

The family would like to thank the residents and staff of Lakeline Oaks Retirement Community in Cedar Park, Texas, for their kindness and support to Barbara over the last year.