Janet May Dillan Harding

 Janet May Dillan Harding, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, at the age of 94. Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on August 19, 1930, Janet was the eldest daughter of Ingolf and Adell Dillan and proudly celebrated her Norwegian heritage.

 In 1937, Janet’s family moved to San Mateo, California, where she grew up alongside her sister Shirley and brother Roger, who remain with us today. She pursued her education at the University of Minnesota.

 In 1953, Janet married the love of her life, Flint Harding, Jr., whom she met at a fraternity party. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising two sons, Flint III (born 1955) and Craig (born 1957).

 Janet began her professional life as a schoolteacher at San Mateo High School. Throughout her life, Janet and Flint lived in various cities, including Peoria, Illinois; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Denver, Colorado; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Fayetteville, North Carolina; Albany, Georgia; Hilton Head, South Carolina; and finally, Edenton, North Carolina.

 Janet loved exploring new places, and during her time in Denver, she even learned to ski. However, her heart eventually found its home in Edenton, a place she deeply cherished for the past eight years.

 Janet’s interests were as vibrant as her personality. She had a passion for birdwatching, gardening, reading, and staying informed on world affairs. She adored her white long-haired cats, found joy in playing bridge and golf, and delighted in sports, fashion, and the magic of Christmas. Janet remained a devoted member of her church community in every city in which she lived.

 Janet is survived by her loving husband of 71 years, Flint Harding Jr.; her sons, Craig Harding (Arlene), and Flint Harding III (Cynthia); four grandchildren, Meredith, Martha, Flint IV, and Samuel; and two great-grandchildren, Joseph and Flint V. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life well-lived. Her memory will be treasured by all who knew her.

 A celebration of Janet’s remarkable life will be held Tuesday, January 21st, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Friends are invited to join the family for a reception in the Parish Hall immediately following the service.

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in her memory be made to: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Foundation, P.O. Box 548, Edenton, NC 27932.