Robert Steven Harding (1944 – 2024)

Robert Steven Harding passed away peacefully at home on August 24, 2024, after a valiant struggle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Powel Byrd Harding, his devoted sons, William Byrd (wife Amanda) of Katonah, NY and Nicholas Powel (wife Samantha) of Bethesda, MD; five unique grandchildren Henry, Campbell, Emma, Lillian and James. He was predeceased by his oldest son, Christopher Reed, and his parents, Henry Francis and Dale Smith Harding of Bethesda, MD.

Robert Steven Harding

He was truly lucky to join the Smithsonian Institution in his dream job right after graduating from college. His career spanned 36 years, with him rising to the position of Deputy Director of the Archives Center at the National Museum of American History. After he retired, he and Powel settled in his beloved Browntown, VA, and built their dream home on the property he purchased in the early ‘70s.

As a graduate of St. Albans School in Washington, DC, he continued to be active in alumni affairs as his class Secretary for many years. He was a member of the Izaak Walton League, writing an oral history of Hal Meredith on their behalf. He was a member of the original Browntown History Committee, writing a research section for a future book. An avid fly fisherman and gardener, he loved being in the country. With a love of constant learning, he had many varied interests spanning science, music, history, technology, photography, and poetry.

A quiet and creative man, he was lucky to make countless friends in this community. He will be sorely missed.

A memorial service will be held in September. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name to Samuels Public Library or Blue Ridge Hospice are appreciated.