James Robert “Jimmy” Harding, 64, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Born in Woburn, Jimmy was the beloved son of Robert and Marilyn (Butler) Harding. He was a lifelong resident of Burlington.

Jimmy was a skilled carpenter who worked across a wide range of construction jobs—from small handyman services and home remodeling to as well as working underground during Boston’s Big Dig project. He loved working with his hands, could fix just about anything, and never hesitated to take on a challenging project.

Jimmy enjoyed woodworking and working on cars and trucks alongside family and friends. He was also an avid fisherman who enjoyed both saltwater and freshwater fishing. His favorite pastime was taking his boat out to fish for trout on nearby lakes and rivers.

Jimmy had a deep affection for animals, especially his loyal dog, Ben, who was always by his side.

At his core, Jimmy was all about family. One of eight children, he grew up in a modest Burlington home filled with love, laughter, and a good deal of commotion. Life in a full house taught him the value of cooperation—and the importance of a quick shower. He was always the first to lend a hand or fix something that needed repair.

As an uncle, Jimmy generously shared his wisdom and life lessons, always trying to prepare his nieces and nephews for the future. He was also a devoted son. After the passing of his father in 2010, Jimmy stepped up in every way to support his mother. Despite facing his own health challenges with Crohn’s disease, he maintained the family home, took care of household chores, and provided constant comfort and companionship that allowed his mother to continue living independently.

Jimmy’s sudden passing is a profound loss. His family and friends will always cherish the many wonderful memories they shared with him throughout his life.

Jimmy was the beloved son of Marilyn (Butler) Harding of Burlington and the late Robert W. Harding.  He was the caring brother of Deborah Bentley & her husband Mark of FL, Christine Miller & her husband Dr. Brent Miller, of FL, Sandra Hebert & her husband Edmond of Ayer, Cynthia Redmond of Easthampton, CT, Kenneth Harding & his wife Michelle of Limerick, ME, Brian Harding & his wife Nancy of Lowell, and MaryLou Harding of Lowell.  He was the uncle of Warren Harding, Denver Miller, Holly Anderson, Megan Petrucelli, Jessica Sullivan, Kristine Bentley, and Steven Bentley.  He was the great uncle of 17.  He was also survived by many friends.

Funeral services will be private.  Memorials in Jimmy’s name may be to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of New England, https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/chapters/ne, 72 River Park St, Suite 202, Needham Heights, MA 02494

Arrangements by the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, Burlington.