David E. Harding

David E. Harding, 76, of Massillon, passed away on October 29, 2024 at Aultman Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born on January 21, 1948 to the late Gene and Gladys (Wantz) Harding in Massillon, Ohio.

A 1966 graduate of Central Catholic High School, receiving his bachelors degree from Walsh University in 1970 and his masters degree from the University of Akron in 1972, David spent 42 years in the Massillon City School District and Washington High School as an English teacher. In addition, he spent over 20 years as a speech teacher, drama director, activities coordinator, student council advisor, class advisor, and Academic Challenge coach during his tenure. David was also an adjunct professor at Stark State College for 10 years and was honored as Teacher of the Year for Massillon City Schools twice and Stark County Teacher of the Year in 1999.

Outside of education, David had a strong desire to serve his community. He was a former member of the Massillon Museum Board of Trustees and the Massillon Parks and Recreation Board, as well as a founding member of the Pebble Chase Condominium Board of Trustees. David was also a lifelong member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Massillon, serving as a lector, eucharistic minister, greeter, Parish Council member, and Ministries Coordinator for over 40 years.

When not working with students or serving his community, David enjoyed playing trivia games, especially Trivial Pursuit, spending time with family and friends, and watching and directing plays and musicals. He was also a member of Mensa for over 40 years.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Margaret Wantz, and brother, Ron Harding. David is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Susan (Gulling) Harding, children Jessica (Sekhar) Mamidi and Jarrod (Natalie) Harding, grandchildren Emmett and Isla Harding, siblings, Ken (Lil) Harding, Gerry (Madelyn) Harding, Don (Trudy) Harding, Michael (JoAnn) Harding, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 5, 2024, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home, Massillon.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 11:00 am at the Divine Mercy Parish St. Joseph, by Fr. John Sheridan.

Burial will follow in the St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the soup kitchen at Divine Mercy Parish, St. Joseph.

To share a memory of David or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below.