Obituary of Robert L. Harding

Robert Lee Harding, a retired principal at Monticello High School, died Tuesday, February 3, 2015. He was 82. The son of the late Collins A. Harding and Cornelia A. Harding(nee Harris), he was born September 2, 1932 in Staunton, Virginia. He honorably served in the United States Air Force and was a proud graduate of Pennsylvania State University and SUNY New Paltz, where he earned degrees in Chemistry Education and Education Administration. He began his career in education at Monticello High School in 1960 when he started as a chemistry teacher, was promoted to Assistant Principal in 1970 and ended as Principal from 1980 to 1994. He enjoyed singing, cheering on all Pittsburgh professional sports teams, and spending time with his friends and family. Always quick with a smile and a quip, he was actively involved in the community, served on the nominating committee for the Monticello High School Wall of Distinction, and was the first African American President of the Monticello Rotary Club International. He is survived by a son: Justin Harding of Alexandria, VA; two daughters: Nikki Harding of Brooklyn, and Lisa Tyree of McKeesport, PA; three grandchildren: Amelia Harding, and Donovan & Jordan Schofield; five great grandchildren; two sisters: Jacqueline Whitaker of Alta Loma, CA and MaryLou Kelly of West Braddock, PA; and several nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, February 6 from 5-8pm at the VanInwegen-Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home, 401 Broadway in Monticello. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 7 at 11am at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Scholarship America (www.scholarshipamerica.org). Arrangements under the direction of the VanInwegen-Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home of Monticello. For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com