Leonard J. Harding

Harding, Leonard J. Age 93, a long time resident of Rio Rancho, NM, whose humor and spirit will be greatly missed, passed away Friday, April 25, 2014. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Gwendolyn H. Hester. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Dorothy A. Harding, of Rio Rancho NM; son-in-law, Douglas V. Hester, of Rio Rancho, NM; grandsons, Zachary D. Hester and wife, Lori, of Rio Rancho, NM, Nicholas D. Hester and wife, Ana Maria, of Rio Rancho, NM; great-granddaughter, Violet Mikayla Hester; great-grandsons, Tanner Z. Rodriquez, and Tyler J. Rodriquez; nieces, Catherine, Edwina, Elsie, and Linda. Lenny was born and raised in the Algiers area of New Orleans, LA, where he grew up in a small town atmosphere with family and friends. His mother, Stella, raised Lenny and his two brothers, Eddie and William, with much love and an iron hand. Lenny's father, William, passed away when Lenny was small. Hunting, fishing, and boating the lakes and bayous were lifelong hobbies. When WWII broke out, Lenny enlisted in the Navy and had many stories of his experiences in the Pacific Theater. He was honorably discharged in New Orleans, where he joined the Fire Department as a Firefighter. During this time, he met, courted, and married the love of his life, Dottie. After retirement, they moved to Rio Rancho to be near their daughter and family. Lenny entertained and endeared himself to all around him with his New Orleans charm and humor. He brought joy to all who knew him and will be forever missed. A Visitation will be held at 6:30pm, on Monday, April 28, 2014, at Daniel Family Funeral Services, Wyoming Chapel. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30am, on Tuesday, April 29, 2014, at Daniel Family Funeral Services, Wyoming Chapel. Deacon Frank Smith of St. Thomas Aquinas will be officiating. Pallbearers will be Douglas Hester, Zachary Hester, Nicholas Hester, Tanner Rodriquez, and Tyler Rodriquez. Following the Funeral Service, the Interment will take place at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Daniels Family Funeral Services 7601 Wyoming NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 505-821-0010