08/10/2026
Victor “Vic” D. Harding Jr., age 75, of Salesville, passed away peacefully on Saturday (August 8, 2026) surrounded by his loving family.
Born on October 17, 1950, Vic was the oldest son of Victor Sr. and Mary Ellen (Allman) Harding of Salesville.
Vic was first and foremost an incredible father – not only to his three daughters, but also a devoted grandfather whose grandchildren were the center of his world. He was a proud 1968 graduate of Zane Trace High School and remained close with many of his classmates throughout the years.
Farming was not just part of his livelihood – it was his passion. A lifelong supporter of agriculture and 4-H, Vic dedicated countless hours to helping his own children and grandchildren succeed while also making sure other young people in the community had the opportunity to participate in 4-H. Whether it meant providing an animal project, lending a helping hand, or offering encouragement, he believed every child who wanted to show at the county fair deserved the chance.
Vic worked for forty-four years at Ohio Valley Coal Company “Nacco #6”, where he earned the respect of his coworkers through his strong work ethic and dedication to his job. In his younger years, he also had a love for fast cars and enjoyed drag racing with Watson/Ruppel Performance.
Above all else, Vic’s life revolved around his family. He cherished every moment spent with his daughters, grandchildren, siblings, and his friends. He never met a stranger and was always willing to help anyone in need. His kindness, generosity, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to those he loved will be remembered by all who knew him.
Vic was preceded in death by his father, Victor D. Harding Sr.; and his brother, Patrick Jay Harding.
He is survived by his loving mother, Mary Ellen (Allman) Harding of Salesville; his three daughters: Shawna (Lee) Campbell of Old Washington, Erin (Richard) McClay of Byesville, and Nikki (Doug) Kahrig of Salesville; and his beloved grandchildren: Kirstyn (Jefry) Alvarez Polanco of St. Petersburg FL, Quinten (Charlie) Archer of Cambridge, Evan Archer of Jacksonville FL, Caitlyn Archer of Fort Wayne IN, Hailee Steward of Duluth MN, Jared Steward, Makenna Steward, and Alyssa Steward of Byesville, Autumn Kahrig and Summer Kahrig of Salesville. He is also survived by his siblings: Jill (Dave) Brill, Jack Harding, and Joy Edwards all of Cambridge, and Pete Harding of Caldwell; his former wife, Brenda Ayers Kirk of Winterset; as well as many nieces, nephews, lifelong friends, and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
Vic’s legacy is one of hard work, compassion, generosity, and unconditional love for his family. His memory will live on in the fields that he farmed, the lives that he touched, and the generations he inspired. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
A celebration of life will be held on October 17, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the small auditorium at the Stop Nine Church of Christ, Byesville.
Personal condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.black-eppersonfuneralhomes.com
