William Edward Harder

William Edward Harder, a gentle giant and a beloved family man, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026. Born on May 6, 1935, to Otis Harder and Willie Sims Harder.  Bill led a life marked by dedication, hard work, and unwavering love for those around him.

Bill served honorably in the military from 1952 until his retirement from the US Coast Guard in 1975. Following his service, he embraced a variety of skilled trades, including mobile welding, construction, and plumbing. His hands were always busy, not only with his professional work but also raising cattle, horses and chickens. Eventually, Bill transitioned to a new chapter, embracing the RV lifestyle, which resonated with his love for adventure and the great outdoors.

Throughout his life, Bill was a man of many passions. He cherished deer hunting, fishing, woodworking, RVing, and traveling. Yet, beyond all these interests, it was his family and farm stood to be his proudest accomplishments. He poured his heart into building the house with his own hands, creating a home filled with love and memories—a true realization of his dreams.

He was married to Donna for 67 wonderful years. Together, they crafted a beautiful life, rich in shared experiences and mutual devotion. Their enduring partnership was a beacon of love and stability that touched everyone fortunate enough to know them.

As a grandfather, Bill's heart softened in the most beautiful way. He became the warm, loving Pepa that his grandchildren could always count on—a source of comfort, wisdom, and endless affection. His gentle nature and caring spirit made him not only a family pillar but also a cherished friend to many.

Bill is survived by his children, Tracy Woodall, Roger Harder and wife Bobbie; grandchildren, Derek Harder and wife Lauren, Stephanie Reynolds and husband Patrick, David Harder and wife Katie, Jessica Blackshear and husband Josh, Jeremy Carpenter and wife Stacey, Jeanie Thomas and husband Richard, Joshua Carpenter and wife Jackie; great grandchildren, Faith Blackshear, Scarlet Blackshear, Lily Stuer, Penelope Blackshear, Zoey Blackshear, Phoenix Reynolds, Joe Harder, Kayla Harder, Anthony Harder, Richard Harder, William Harder, Summer Harder, Charlotte Harder, Jacob Carpenter, Jace Carpenter, Alaine Carpenter, Sadie Carpenter, Savannah Judkins, Xain Judkins, Xaiver Judkins.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Donna Harder; sisters, Ima Jean Pardue, Barbara Ysidro, Jenny Wilcox; brothers, Jimmy Harder and Nelson Harder.

William Edward Harder’s legacy is one of strength wrapped in kindness, of dreams realized through perseverance, and of love that spanned decades. He leaves behind a family forever shaped by his tenderness, his handiwork, and his example. Though he is no longer with us, the memories of his warmth, generosity, and quiet heroism will continue to inspire and comfort all who had the privilege to know him.