Jesse James Harding (Lebanon)'s Obituary
Jesse James Harding, son of Elmer and Berneice Shepherd Harding, was born February 8, 1938, in Warrensburg, Missouri. He departed this life Monday, August 8, 2022, in his home, in Conway, Missouri, at the age of eighty-four years, and six months.
On October 22, 1982, he was united in marriage to Ona Faye Pope, and they shared thirty-three years before her passing on June 13, 2015.
He was also preceded in death by his parents; and nine siblings.
Jesse is survived by four daughters, Sheri Harding, Peggy Harding, and Donna Harding, all of the Kansas City area, Joyce Scrivner and her husband Mike of Lebanon, Missouri; one son, Richie Pope of Lebanon, Missouri eleven grandchildren, Kim, Ernie, Jack, Kenton, Matt, Stephen, Jordan, Amber, R.J., Brittany, and Megan; a brother, David Harding, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, a number of nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.
He was raised in the Kansas City, Missouri area, and then served his country faithfully in the United States Army. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he returned to Kansas City, where he began working as a truck driver. He had been employed by ANR Graves Company for over thirty years, and had been recognized for his number of years of driving with no accidents. He was a member of the Teamsters Union. When he retired he and Ona moved to Conway, Missouri, in 1992 and made their home there and then traveled to many wonderful places.
He enjoyed fixing electronic devices, playing slot machines, and was a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. He greatly enjoyed riding his motorcycle and was a bit of a daredevil. He had a wonderful memory and was a great story teller. He was a good man with a big heart. He supported the Missouri Sheriff’s Association. He was very close to his dog, “Sparky”. He loved his family dearly and especially enjoyed having time with his grandchildren.
Jesse was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle and was a caring friend. We celebrate his life and know that his family and friends will hold tight to the wonderful memories he made for them during his lifetime.
A memorial has been established to D..A.V. and donations may be made through the funeral home.
What’s your fondest memory of Jesse?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jesse?
Share a story where Jesse's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jesse you’ll never forget.
How did Jesse make you smile?
