Karen "Tess" Harding

Karen Mathilda Harding (Tess), 86, of Harvest Alabama died peacefully at her residence on Thursday, May 28, 2026.

Karen was born October 10, 1939 in the Township of Roscoe, MN to Arthur and Ida (Gronseth) Erickson. She graduated from Rochester MN High School in 1957. She married Jim Harding in November 1961. They raised their family in several states throughout the country before settling in the Rochester area and then later retired in Harvest AL.

Karen was employed at the Rochester Public School System for 20 years. She loved cooking, gardening, golf, and playing cards. She was an avid down-hill skier in her younger years. She loved spending time with her family, hosting many holidays and attending their many activities.

She is survived by her children; Jimmie Harding II (Kim), Ross Harding (Kathy), Chad Harding (Jennifer), Tina Harding McNabb. Also her grandchildren: Ryan Mettetal, Erin Hartin, Chris Harding, Matt Harding, Joshua Harding, Hannah Harding, Trey Harding, Madison Dawkins (Darrick). Plus 7 great grandchildren; her two sisters, Marlys Jacobson and Evie Refsland and one sister-in-law, Alice Erickson. She is preceded in death by her husband Jim, one brother and three sisters.

Visitation with the family will be Saturday June 13th from 9 am until 10:30 am at Legacy Chapel Funeral Home, Madison, Alabama. Services will follow at 10:30 am in Chapel at Legacy Chapel Funeral Home. Inurnment will be at Huntsville Memory Gardens.

A celebration of Karen’s life will also be held in Rochester, Minnesota at a later date.

The family wishes to extend deepest gratitude to Jennifer Harding who was Karen’s caretaker and provided tireless dedication, love, comfort, and round-the-clock care throughout her final days.