Carol O'Brien Harding's Obituary
Decatur – Carol O’Brien Harding, 75, of Decatur, IL, passed away Friday, August 29, 2025, in her home surrounded by her family.
Carol was born on November 27, 1949, in Taylorville, IL, the daughter of James W. and Kathryn (Abell) O’Brien. She married Joseph D. Harding on April 6, 1973, in Decatur, IL. She was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Carol had an Associates Degree from Richland, a Bachelors Degree from Millikin University, and a Masters Degree from Kansas State University. She retired as an academic advisor for the adult degree program at Millikin University.
After Carol retired, she and Joe loved to spend time traveling. It was not uncommon for her to be planning one trip while she was still on another. Some of their favorite trips included, Ireland, Italy, Germany, France, many winter trips to Florida with friends, and family vacations to Disney World. Carol loved Jimi Hendrix, Michael Jackson, and bad sci-fi movies. She enjoyed day trips to wineries, going to the movies with her kids or grandkids, and Harry Potter trivia. But her favorite activity was watching and cheering on her grandkids in all of their sports and activities.
Carol is survived by her husband Joe of Decatur; children: Sarah Gillespey (Matt Whitehead) of Decatur, Laura (Mike) Topps of Shorewood and Joe Harding (Amy Brewer) of Decatur; grandchildren: Seth Gillespey, Abby Gillespey, James Topps, and Olivia Topps; step grandchildren: Jacob Whitehead, Rachel Whitehead, and TJ Herman; siblings: Karin Fisher, Sharon (John) Alberts, John (Sandy) O’Brien and Cheryl (John) Eckert; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm, Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Moran & Goebel Funeral Home. Funeral mass will be 10 am, Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Assumption, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Our Lady of Lourdes School, St. Teresa High School & Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Salisbury, NC.
Moran & Goebel Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at https://www.moranandgoebel.com.
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