Marjorie Lee Harding

Marjorie L. (Smith) Harding sprouted in Yakima, budded in Walla Walla, and blossomed in Portland, Oregon until her petals landed softly back to earth on January 29, 2013. She was the third of 10 siblings, and is with three of her siblings now whom have passed on before her. She is also joined by both parents; Raymond and Dolores. Marjorie is also with her husband, Peter Harding and is survived by her three sons; Peter, Michael, and Clay. As well, she has three daughters-in-law, 13 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. There are also countless neighborhood kids from over the years who considered her a surrogate mom.

Marjorie worked in the culinary field for 30 plus years, starting out as line cook and retired as a kitchen manager. She was known for her homemade Sweet Potato Pie, Cornbread Stuffing, Black-eyed Peas and Ham, Red Beans and Rice, and Seafood Gumbo.

Her favorite pastime activities included knitting and crocheting blankets, hats, scarves, etc. for all her kids, grandkids, and dear friends. When her hands got too painful to continue, she didn’t give up, she moved on to crafts with her king-sized glue gun; she loved gluing potpourri to everything from wreaths to treasure boxes – she lovingly gave these away, as well. She loved to read the good book, and garden. She had a passion for planting, from food to flowers – she had over 40 potted plants at the last count, and she never missed a beat to water, feed, and talk to them consistently.

She lived for her animals and grandchildren. Her last pets were Bonnie the dog, and Sissy the cat, along with her surrogate pets – Stripes and Jack the cats, Diamond the dog, and Charlie the Macaw. She was blessed with being able to see and talk with many of her grandchildren weekly, if not daily – this was the highlight of her existence. Before her passing, she was able to see and hold her youngest great grandson from Wisconsin.

Just some of the things she will be remembered for were her love of flowers, her variety of hats, and her witty humor. She lived for her children and grandchildren, and her smile and spirit will always be imprinted on our hearts. She was a very brave, strong woman, who fought to the very end. Through it all, she smiled and rejoiced in the love of our God, and now she has gone home to HIM.