Alvin C. Harding, 74
A resident of Benton City, Washington since 1990, Alvin Coy Harding, 74, passed away peacefully at his home on July 15, 2021. Mr. Harding was born October 6, 1946, in Waco, Texas, to Arzel and Lorraine Harding. Al (Ben to family) joined the Army in 1965 with his brother Craig. While stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma Al met Leona, his wife. He said when he saw her galloping across the field on her horse he fell in love. He was married to the love of his life for more than 53 years.
After leaving the military Al moved back to California where he started his career as a substation operator for Southern California Edison, an electric utility company. In the early 90s Al moved to Washington to work at Bonneville Power Administration. His career working in the electric utilities industry spanned more than 44 years.
An avid reader, you would never find him without a book in his hand. Most friends and family will remember him with a cigarette in his mouth, beer or cup of coffee in his hand, and an open book nearby. Al was tenacious at cards, always winning many more hands than he lost. He also enjoyed strategy games like pool, Risk, cribbage, and chess. In his free time, you would usually find him building or repairing something; his energy was endless. We will miss his sharp wit and agile mind that kept us on our toes.
Al is survived by his wife Leona, son Sean, and daughters Tyra and Dana. He leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father, Arzel Claude Harding, his mother, Lorraine Mae Harding and two brothers Anthony Craig Harding and Rodney Keith Harding.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 1, 2022 at the First Baptist Church in Benton City.