Raymond Lewis Harding Jr.

Harding, Jr., Raymond Lewis, age 83, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2014. He was born on August 24, 1930 in Richmond, Virginia. Ray enlisted in the United States Navy in December, 1948. He served in the Korean and the Vietnam War and was awarded the Purple Heart twice and also earned several other decorations. He was honorably discharged in June, 1968 after 20 years of service. After his last tour of duty as a Navy recruiter in Knoxville, Ray was offered a job at Valley Fidelity Bank which he accepted. He went to work for the bank the same day he was discharged from the US Navy. While working at the bank, he attended Knoxville Business College at night. Ray worked as a Bank Officer from 1968 until April, 1991 before retiring, giving him 24 years with the bank. Ray was a member of Colonial Heights United Methodist Church for over 40 years. He was a member of Oriental Lodge # 453 and a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason of Knoxville and Kerbela Shrine Temple. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Lewis, Sr. and Irene Harding; father-in-law and mother-in-law, I. W. and Pearl Marshall; sister, Laura Jane Harding; and his sons Robin David Ray and Michael Jaime Harding. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Claudine M. Harding; sons Christopher W. and Brian W. Harding; granddaughter, Kayla E. Harding; sisters, Shirley Graves and Brenda West; brother, George H. Harding; and a host of other relatives. Family will receive friends for both Ray and his son, Michael on Friday from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM in the chapel of Berry Funeral Home, Chapman Highway with the funeral service for both to follow at 7:00 PM with Rev. John Brewster officiating. Family and friends will meet on Saturday at 12:00 Noon at Lynnhurst Cemetery for the interment service for both Ray and Michael. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Colonial Heights United Methodist Church, 6321 Chapman Highway, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920, or the charity of your choice. Condolences may be offered at www.berryfuneralhome.com