Vernon D. Harding

Vernon D. Harding, 77, dedicated and loving husband of 55 years, father of five, grandfather of ten, great-grandfather of one, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026.

The son of farmers, Vern earned a Bachelor’s degree from Fort Hays State University, where he met his future wife. They raised their family in Wichita, where they were members of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. He is a former American Family Insurance district manager and agent and a former member of the Knights of Columbus.

Vern’s mission in life was to provide for his wife, children, and grandchildren. When he wasn’t working, he spent time with his family, taking them fishing and on bike rides, playing games, and cheering them on at sporting events. He enjoyed watching WSU and KU basketball. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, generosity, and lifelong friendships.

Preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Margaret Harding, and his brother David Harding. Survived by his wife Mary Lou; children, Robert Harding of Wichita, Stacey (Gary) Guzman of Wichita, Jennifer Harding of Oklahoma City, Angela Sainsbury of Bermuda, and Melanie Shimon of Wichita; sisters, Evelyn Jessup of Ft. Worth, TX, Shirley Wood of Palo Alto, CA, and Vicky Chinn of Pratt, KS; grandchildren, Caleb, Elianna, and Elyssa Guzman of Wichita, Kaia, David, and Simone Sainsbury of Bermuda, Michael, Alex, Morgan, and Lily Shimon of Wichita; and great-grandson Carl Shimon of Wichita.

Rosary will be at 10:00 am, Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 am, both on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established with: Parkinson’s Foundation Heartland Chapter, Attn: Donor Services, 5757 Waterford District Drive, Suite 310, Miami, Florida 33126 and St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 861 North Socora, Wichita, Kansas 67212.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary