Harold George Spalding

In loving memory of Harold George “Anthony” McKay Spalding (aka Butch), who was born on April 27, 1943, in Los Angeles, California, to Jacquelyn Francis Riddle and Harold George McKay. Harold, the second of two children to Jacquelyn, was a soul of complex beauty—spirited yet reserved, strong-willed yet possessing a quiet shyness, often finding solace in introspection, particularly in the company of many.

Harold’s journey began at Saint Anne’s Catholic Elementary, where he graduated in 1958, and continued at Santa Monica High School, graduating in 1962. During these formative years, he also contributed to the family legacy at Spalding Mortuary, serving in roles that ranged from driver to family services coordinator, and as a certified embalmer.

Duty called, and Harold answered by enlisting in the US Army in 1964. His service took him to Germany, where he honed his skills as a transport driver, an experience that deepened his lifelong fascination with building and mechanics. Upon his return, he embraced a career in Respiratory Therapy (RT), dedicating over 40 years of compassionate care in hospitals across Los Angeles and Orange County. It was in this field that he met Jennifer in 1972 at West Adams Hospital, with whom he shared a zest for life and adventure. Their love story spanned over 50 years, blessed by the arrival of their cherished children, Erica and Anthony.

To those who knew him, Harold was a man of contrasts. Fondly known as a “homebody”, he found peace in the quiet of his garden, nurturing succulents, cacti, herbs, and fruits. Yet, “Butch” harbored a passion for all things automotive, from fixing to racing, often with a touch of playful daring. He also found joy in tennis, golf, and fishing, pursuits that challenged and fulfilled him.

Above all, Harold’s greatest love was his family. His devotion to his wife, Jennifer, was unwavering, and his children were his pride and joy. Over the years, his heart expanded to include his grandchildren and close friends he counted as family, finding warmth in their laughter and quiet moments of reflection. Music, especially old school jazz and R&B, filled his soul, and sometimes he shared his beautiful singing voice with the one he loved most. He was always listening to music, in the car and at home, softly humming and whistling to himself as he worked.

Harold was preceded in death by his father, mother, and sister Angela. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jennifer; his children, Erica and Anthony; their spouses, Smith and Caroline; his grandchildren, Walker, Ayla, and Geordi; sisters-in-law Deborah and Janey; his nephew and niece C.C. and Kristen, his cousin and dear friend, Adrian (Buggy); his brother Glen; and many other cousins, relatives and friends.

Harold, Tony, Butch, Dad, G-Pa—he will be profoundly missed. May he rest in eternal peace, embraced in the loving arms of Jesus, crowned by God as his own.

The Day GOD TOOK YOU HOME

A million times I’ve needed you,

A million times I’ve cried…

If love alone could have saved you

You never would have died.

In life I loved you dearly,

In death I love you still

In my heart you hold a place

NO one else can ever fill.

It broke my heart to lose you

But you didn’t go alone.

Part of me went with you

the day that GOD

took you home

-Jennifer Pugh