Nancy Katherine Harding, loved her family, animals

Nancy Katherine Harding left us for heaven Friday, March 28, 2025, after a long period of illness. She was born March 22, 1937. 

Nancy loved her family, her animals, and the beach. She was happiest when she was socializing with her family and friends. In her professional career, she was the best bra fitter in Frederick, Md., for many years. She worked for Hutzler’s, Hess, Leggett, and finally JCPenney in their lingerie departments for over 50 years. She built a faithful following of devoted clients. Her WOW (Women Only Weekends) at the beach were full of fun and good times.

She loved the color pink—anything and everything pink! Her clothing and outfits were always beautifully coordinated, and she set many fashion trends as a result. Her distinctive outfits set her apart from other women her age and younger.

Over her lifetime, she rescued many dogs and cats. Once she rescued an animal, they lived a treasured life. She gave them an abundance of love and attention.

She is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Tweety) Benny and son-in-law Mark Benny; her devoted son, William Brian Burke; three grandchildren, Sarah Morelock (Hanover, Pa.), Joseph Benny (Orlando, Fla.) and Chuck Burke
(Tennessee); and one great-grandchild, Braxton. Nancy also is survived by two younger sisters, Jane Hart (Atlantic Beach, Fla.) and Lynn Holmes and her husband Stephen Holmes (Bel Air, Md).

Nancy lived in Pasadena, Md., for many years before moving to Monrovia, Md., and then finally to Delaware. The beach house was her favorite place of all. Her family enjoyed staying with her periodically. Ultimately, her son Brian stayed with her as her mobility decreased.

She was initially married for many years to William A. Burke of Pasadena, Md., and later married John Harding of Monrovia, Md. She single-handedly nursed John at home through dementia. She was an amazing caregiver and was a great comfort to him before he passed.

Over her lifetime, she made friends with many co-workers and neighbors. She exemplified the saying, “There are no strangers, only friends I haven’t met yet.”

A brief memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, April 8, at Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, alz.org.

Online condolences may be sent to shortfuneralservicesandcremations.com.