Elmer Jackson Harden

Elmer Jackson “Jack” Harden, age 80 of Mt. Olive passed away Sunday, January 23, 2011. His precious life began on July 16, 1930. Born to Ambrose and Indiana Harden of Mt. Olive; his siblings were Mary Ellen (Branham), John Harden, all of whom preceded him in death. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Janet (Burrell) Harden; daughter, Debbie Hardiman; son, Charles “Chuck” (Cindy) Harden; proud Paw Paw to his grandchildren: Derek Hardiman, Donna (Steven) Hardiman Jones, Brittney Harden and Shay Harden Pointer; great grandchildren: Natalie and Nolan Hardiman, Jackson and Grayson Jones and Lily Pointer; special brother-in-law, Charles Ray Burrell; additionally, there are a host of extended family members and loving friends. Jack was a graduate of Mortimer Jordan High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted and proudly served with the U. S. Navy. Afterward, he worked 33 years for U. S. Steel and 10 years for the Birmingham Parking Authority. He was avid supporter of the University of Alabama. Jack lived an inspiring Christian life. Saved at the age of 17, he spent his adult life teaching the word of God. For 63 years he was upstanding member of Mt. Olive First Baptist Church where he proudly served as deacon and beloved teacher in his Sunday School class. Jack was also a member of The Amazing Grays Choir. He also was a long standing member of Masonic Lodge. He was a well respected and well known figure in the Mt. Olive Community. He served several years alongside his beloved Janet, as a worker with the Mt. Olive branch voting polls and was a staunch Democrat. His life’s passion was life itself. Not a single breath he took, nor a step he strode was ever taken for granted. A gentle hand and a warm smile were two of many characteristics that defined him. Those who knew him, even those who he just met, remember his uncanny humor and his ability to put a moment’s thoughts into a poem or song. His brilliance in collective memory and knowledge radiated through the many and varied discussions in which he would engage. Jack’s life is a blessed memory, a celebration to the journey he has only now begun. His funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at Mt. Olive First Baptist Church with burial in Mt. Olive Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the church. Ridout’s Gardendale Chapel, 205-631-6252, is directing.