Gary Lee Harden

Gary Lee Harden passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, at his home surrounded by love. Born November 20, 1946, in Pekin, Illinois, Gary was the beloved son of Clifton and Jackie Harden and his loving step-mother Patty Harden.

He spent his early years in Terre Haute and New Albany, Indiana where he attended New Albany High School. In junior high, Gary met the love of his life, Carol Ann (Bye) Harden and they married in 1968. Together they shared 57 years of devoted marriage while building a life centered around faith, family and friendship. After graduating from Indiana State University, Gary proudly served his country with honor as a lieutenant in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Following his service, he began a long, successful 40-year career in the financial industry; first as a financial consultant and First Vice President with Merrill Lynch in Miami, Florida and then eventually finished his career at UBS Wealth Management based in Jacksonville, Florida. Respected by colleagues and clients alike, Gary always considered his clients dear friends.

While living in Miami, Gary was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Perrine, where he served as a deacon for many years. He was a guiding figure in his church community and had the opportunity to mentor many young people sharing his wisdom and support.

Gary embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. He was an avid marathon runner (finishing 8 marathons including the Boston marathon twice), fisherman, snow skier, musician and golfer. Competitive by nature, he was always up for a challenge even for a heated game of ping pong with his youngest granddaughter. Gary and Carol enjoyed traveling, attending various sporting events and spending special times in the company of many dear friends in Miami, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida and Lake Toxaway, North Carolina.

Beyond his many accomplishments, Gary’s most treasured role was within his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving and supportive father to his only child, Michele Harden Sousa and a proud father-in-law to Michael Sousa. His greatest joy was being “Granddad” to his 3 grandchildren - Morgan (25), Riley (23) and Caroline (18). They were truly the highlight of his life. He rarely missed picking them up from school when they were little, always enjoyed their soccer or lacrosse games, graduations or grandparent’s day. Whether hiking mountain trails in Lake Toxaway, pulling his grandkids on a kneeboard behind the boat on the lake, or simply sharing ice-cream, Gary cherished every moment with his girls. He was our #1 fan, offering encouragement, life lessons and unconditional love.

Gary lived with integrity, faith and a deep abiding love for his family. He led by example, leaving a legacy of kindness, generosity, and strength. He will be missed infinitely and loved always.

Gary was predeceased by his parents, Clifton and Jackie Harden; his stepmother, Patty Harden; his grandparents, Clifton and Marie Harden; his step-grandmother, Lucille Harden; his grandparents, Tony and Mam Alumbaugh; and his in-laws, Paul and Mary Bye. He also loved his aunt and uncles, cousins and step-siblings in Indiana.

Our family extends heartfelt thanks to the team of caregivers and Treasure Coast Hospice who cared for Gary with respect and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary’s memory to Big Dog Ranch Rescue at 14444 Okeechobee Blvd Loxahatchee Groves, Florida 33470. Website: bdrr.org Phone: 561-791-6465

Gary spent many years caring for his own dogs, Corky, Princess, Lady, Murphy, Benji and Lucy-Lou, who all meant the world to him.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life to honor Gary at the Aycock-Riverside Funeral Center, 1112 Military Trail, Jupiter on Saturday, November 22, 2025, with visitation from 1pm to 4pm. A memorial service will begin at 2:00 pm.