Harold Dwight Harding

Harold Dwight Harding, better known as Dwight Harding, passed away on October 26, 2016 at the age of 89 years old at his home with loved ones by his side in prayer. He so badly wanted to live until 90, so for his sake we will say he was 89 and three quarters years old.

Dwight was born in Whittier, Calif. on January 7, 1927. When he was in first grade his family moved South to Fallbrook, Calif. where he then grew up and planted his heart. In the year 1944, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served in the second World War until it’s end in 1945. He then served in the United States Navy Reserves, making for 10 years of total service.

In 1953 he met the love of his life, Peggy Ruth Bishop. They went on to get married on July 24, 1954 and they had three children – Deborah Jean, Patricia Ann and Robert Dwight. He attended two colleges where he studied Business and Biblical Studies – UCLA and Biola University.

Dwight worked hard in the sales industry for the next 60 years and owned his own company called D&D Supply. Although, his true passion was in his ministry where he was blessed enough to work with numerous churches, congregations and bible studies. Youth ministry had a very special place in his heart. He served as Youth Pastor at Granada Heights Church in Whittier CA, Rose Drive Friends Church in Yorba Linda CA, and Eastside Christian Church in Fullerton CA. He then served as Associate Pastor at Fallbrook First Baptist in Fallbrook CA. For the past 12 years he diligently and loyally served as an Elder and Pastor of Seniors at Rancho Community Church in Temecula CA.

He loved serving people with a hug and a smile no matter the time nor the place. It was never about him, even despite his silly jokes about how good looking he thought he was. It was always about you. He only made those jokes so you would smile, which he would then compliment and tell you how valuable you were. It didn’t matter if you were a stranger or his closest friend, he loved you unconditionally and made you feel special. He was gifted with that. He loved Jesus with all of his heart and wanted his life to reflect the sacrifice Jesus made for him.

Dwight’s family was his pride and joy. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Peggy; his three children, Deborah, Patricia, and Robert; his 10 grandchildren and his 14 great-grandchildren.

He will forever be known as the greatest Husband, Father, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, Friend, Pastor and Hero.

Please come and be a part of the blessing he was in all of our lives.

A Memorial Service will take place on November 21 at 1:30 p.m. located at Rancho Community Church 31300 Rancho Community Way, Temecula CA 92592. Followed by a luncheon.

He would want to remind you to love The Lord, love others and to be yourself. His favorite verse was Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.”