Mary Ellen (Babcock) Harding was born on February 25, 1948 in Wellington, Kansas to Chester and Dorothy (Carter) Babcock.  She was later blessed with two brothers, David and Robert.  They were raised and attended school in Harper, Kansas and Mary Ellen graduated alongside the class of '66 from Harper High School.

Mary Ellen married the love of her life, Joe Harding, on October 7, 1968.  This union produced the most cherished gifts that life could ever grant…their daughter, Desiree (Eric) Barker of Harper; grandsons, Derick Barker of Hutchinson, Kansas and Codie (Katlyne) Barker of Haven, Kansas; granddaughter, Peyton (Nick) Snodgrass of Harper; great-grandsons, Kasen Snodgrass and Damian Barker; and great-granddaughter, Riley Snodgrass.  Mary Ellen was an extremely proud and devoted mother and grandmother.  It was important to her to be part of whatever her family was involved in, and they knew they could always count on her for anything.

With her entire working career spent at the Harper Hospital, Mary Ellen was first a Candy Striper, then a CNA, and lastly an Xray Technician.  She was also one of the first EMT crew members that started the EMS at Harper Hospital.  She retired after 35 years of service.  And for 40 years, MeMe (as she was known by) looked forward to spending her vacation time in the summer as co-director of the Girl Scout Day Camp at Anthony Lake.  She began when her daughter became a member and continued for many years after.

First and foremost, Mary Ellen loved spending time with her family and friends.  She also enjoyed sewing, crafting, garage sales, and collecting memorabilia.  She always had a smile on her face and loved visiting with anyone.  She had the ability to find something in common with anyone she met.  It was truly a gift for her to be such a people person, never having met a stranger, filled with a kind and caring heart.  Mary Ellen's greatest passion was playing the piano, whether practicing hymns for church or just for personal enjoyment on her baby grand at home.  She could be heard playing daily until her health no longer allowed.

On October 16, 2025, Mary Ellen passed away at her home at the age of 77 with family by her side.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Chet and Dorothy and one brother, Dave.  She will be deeply missed by her husband, Joe; daughter, Desiree and husband, Eric Barker; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother Rob and his wife, Michelle Babcock; sister-in-law, Carol Babcock; and numerous relatives and friends.

In memory of Mary Ellen, she would wish for you to always make time to stop by and visit a friend, relative, or loved one, and enjoy their company for as long as you can.

Memorial Service is 2:00 p.m. Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Prairie Rose Funeral Home, Harper with Roy Jacobs officiating.  Celebration, visitation, and story sharing will take place at the Harper Masonic Lodge immediately following the service.  All are welcome to attend.  Drinks and finger foods will be provided.

A private burial will take place at a later date when her husband is able to be reunited with her.

Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W 14th St ~ Harper, Kansas  67058