Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes

Serving families in the Miles City, Forsyth, Lame Deer, Broadus, Circle, Jordan and Terry areas for three generations.

For Immediate Help Call
Miles City: 406-232-4457 — Forsyth: 406-346-2311

In Memory Of

William “Bill” D. Harding, age 57 of Miles City.

March 14, 1964 – May 29, 2021

On the afternoon of May 29, 2021 William “Bill” Darrell Harding passed away at the Holy Rosary Hospital, Miles City MT, as a result of a horse riding accident on his family ranch. He was doing what he loved with the ones he loves.    He was 57 years old.

Bill was born on March 14, 1964 to Nancy Willene Harding and Darrell Leroy Harding.   He was the eldest of two sons.  He attended grade schools in Miles City, graduating in 1982 from CCDHS.   He was a proud member of the 1981 State Class A Football Champions.  He was named All State Center.  It was during high school he met the love of his life, Roxanne Lindberg.   They were set up on a blind date to their high school formal.   To Roxanne’s dismay, when he came to pick her up, she thought he was someone else.  They were the true meaning of high school sweethearts and true love!

Bill worked for LP Anderson beside his dad haying during the summers, as well as Ray Jerrel Trucking. In high school he started working for the Hook Ranch. It was there he was introduced to the start of some very influential cattlemen in his life.  Jim Chandler showed Bill the North Country and the cowboy way of life.   Long Days, Late Nights, was a strong motto of the Hook Ranch Life.

Bill and Roxanne were married on April 9, 1983.   Together they had two sons Matthew Darrell, and James William.   His life was about these three.   He was involved with all their activities from an early age.  Bill was a gentleman. Bill started his youth coaching career at the Kircher School.  He and Ben Herzog felt it was time to give back at an early age.   They were still in High School and took on that basketball challenge.  He was a MC Youth baseball coach, Babe Ruth Coach, Little Guy Football coach, and AAU Wrestling coach during the boys younger years.   Many miles were traveled with the boys and Bill attending their activities.   He continued to be involved as they grew, he was the President and board member of the AAU Wrestling for many years.  He was part of the group that spear headed the purchase of the Hines Wrestling Complex.  He continued serving as President and a board member of the High School Wrestling Booster Club.   Bill took pride in being involved in the community.    His favorite slogan was, “if you have a bitch, you better have a solution, get involved or be quiet.”  He was excited and proud to be on the fair board.  He was very excited for the new event center and what it would do for this community.

Bill worked for Boughton Auction Services along with his wife, as a ring man and clerk for many years. He got the boys involved as ring help, earning high dollar tips helping haul purchases for buyers. He continued to love the auction world.  Helping with many charities and fundraisers.  He was on the board of the inception for the Miles City Ranch Rodeo.   He served with his wife and very dear friends for the last twelve years.  He was proud to bring the youth, women, and open teams to Miles City in a two-day event.  The grand finale to the weekend would always be Bill’s favorite event, the Bronc Ride.  Many entry fees were paid by Bill so that they could ride and participate.  They were always going to pay him back when they won.   Someday he was hoping one of them would win. He was also proud to be a part of the initialization of the Eastern Montana Ranch Rodeo Series, where he served as the VP and a board member.  He will forever be known as an honest man, fair judge, an organizer, pick-up man, bid taker, encourager and advice giver.

Bill competed in Ranch Rodeos and switched over to judging the last few years. He loved instructing the youth and teaching them so that the sport would continue.  His rodeo family meant the world to him. Especially his favorite rodeo secretary and friend LaVetta Weeding.  Bill’s love of Ranch Rodeos started in 1996 when he was on the winning team for the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale.  His teammates were John Morford, Todd LaRowe and Ernie Fogle.  Bill tagged along with his dad at the Miles City Livestock Commission as a youth.  He said he legally started working in 1978 when he received his first pay check and never looked back. He worked alongside his father for several years being taught by so many great cattle men.  His father was a true inspiration to Bill and he respected his hard work and determination.   MCLC has been a major part of Bill’s life.   He has met many a great cowboys and cattlemen throughout his career. MCLC livestock crews were some of Bill’s best friends.   He formed many bonding relations and gained many new daughters.  He was proud of these father moments as they were some of the highlights in his life.  Especially getting them to wear dresses and cleaning up good at the Christmas Party. He was especially proud to call Lindsay Lehrud his. The boys brought her into our family as their sister.  She has been a true light in his life. Bill saw many changes and owners in his career at the sale barn.  But he continued to stay and support. He’s been there so long, they have an alley named in his honor “Bill’s Alley.”  Both boys have worked alongside their dad and became part of the yard rat family.  This was family he was proud of!  Along with the years at MCLC comes involvement with the Bucking Horse Sale.   This was his 42nd year.  Bill was the behind the scenes, get it done type of guy.   He always said he wondered what a bucking horse sale looked like from the grandstands.  Bill was especially proud to have worked under three generations of Lingers.   He was honored to have known Sonny, Pat and Ty.   Sonny even dragged him along to Vegas to work behind chutes in the city of lights during the NFR. Bill was honored to be their friend. Bill was also a brand inspector for many years.   He loved traveling to other ranches and places to see their operations.  He truly enjoyed his Cross 4 Family.  Spending lots of time at the feed lot with the Wackers and crew.

Bill was a man of few words, but when he spoke you listened. His look may have stopped a few strong men in their tracks.  He never told his boys twice. Bills heart was full!  He loved his family, friends, and community.   He was proud of his boys and their accomplishments.  His greatest honor was being their father. He was their chauffeur, financial advisor, listener, life mentor, friend, guardian and their hero.  He didn’t always hold their hand but he had their backs.  It was once said that some people don’t believe in heroes, but they mustn’t of met Bill Harding.

Bill is survived by his wife Roxanne Lindberg Harding of 38 years.   Their two sons Matthew Darrell Harding (Jodie Stevenson Harding).  James William Harding (Kassy Ann Tharp Harding, their daughter Emersyn Ann Harding, and a new addition coming in November)  His mother Nancy Willene Harding, father Darrell Leroy Harding.   Brother Craig L (Denita) Harding (daughters Haley, Katelyn and Sydney)   Honorary grandchildren Yates Lee Ross, Yardlie Jo Ross, and loyal companions Jake and Sushi.

A man of few words, but all worth listening to…..

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 3, 2021 from 1:00-6:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 4, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Eastern Montana Fair Grounds Arena in Miles City.  Interment will follow in the family lot of the Custer County Cemetery.  Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

Should friends desire, memorials may be sent to the family for a charity in Bill’s honor to be established at a later date.

Service Schedule

Visitation

1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday June 3, 2021

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Funeral Service

11:00 a.m.

Friday June 4, 2021

Eastern Montana Fair Grounds Arena

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Interment

Following the Service

Friday June 4, 2021

Custer County Cemetery

Cemetery Rd

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Luncheon

A potluck Luncheon

Friday June 4, 2021

Custer County Event Center

42 Garryowen Rd

Miles City, Motana 59301

View map

Service Schedule

Visitation

1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday June 3, 2021

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Funeral Service

11:00 a.m.

Friday June 4, 2021

Eastern Montana Fair Grounds Arena

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Interment

Following the Service

Friday June 4, 2021

Custer County Cemetery

Cemetery Rd

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Luncheon

A potluck Luncheon

Friday June 4, 2021

Custer County Event Center

42 Garryowen Rd

Miles City, Motana 59301

View map

Share

Share this! Tweet this! Email this!

Send flowers

Please visit the floral shop page for assistance in choosing a local florist.

Photo Gallery

Share your photos

Reader Interactions

Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  1. Roxie, when Elnora called me I wanted so badly to be able to reach out and hold you. I am so sorry for your loss. May our precious LORD and Savior cradle you and your family in His loving hands.

  3. Roxie,
    Could not believe the sad news, our thoughts and prayers go out to to you and your family.

  4. Roxanne, Matt and Jimmy, I can not put into words how shocked I was to hear this. What a wonderful, friend, Man, Dad and Husband Bill was. May God comfort you with the best of memories now and always. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. R. I. P. Bill.

  5. Roxanne and family,
    So very sorry to hear about your husband. Our deepest sympathy to all the family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers in the days ahead. God Bless!
    Glen and Teena Bollinger

  6. Roxanne and Family,
    Our thoughts, prayers and sympathy are with you all.
    Dennis & Billie Kaye Harms

  7. Roxi, I’m so sorry for you and your family right now, my heart is aching for you. May God hold you in His loving arms thru the coming days and months.

  8. Words cannot express how bad we feel. So sorry for you and your family’s loss. Dan and Linda Stokes

  9. Roxanne and family: I am so sorry for your families loss. Bill was liked and loved by all and will be sorely missed. May all the memories carry you through this difficult time. Hugs and will be praying for all of you. 💙

  11. Roxanna, Matt and Jimmy, we are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He will be missed by so many. May all your memories help you through this difficult time. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Fred and Gwen

  12. Roxanne, Matt and Jimmy, we are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He will be missed by so many. May all your memories help you through this difficult time. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Fred and Gwen

  13. Roxanne and family,
    I am so so sad to hear Bill’s passing. We have no way of predicting these things. In just one day your whole world is flipped upside down. Trust me when I say, God is holding you in the palm of his hand. He holds every single broken piece of you. I’m so sorry you guys have to experience this kind of pain. I will keep you, Bill, and your family in my prayers! Let me know if there is anything I can do.

  15. Roxanne and family,
    So, so sad to hear of Bill’s passing. Will be wrapping you all in prayer.

  16. We were so saddened to hear of Bill’s passing… sending you all our sincere condolences

  19. Roxanne, Matt and Jimmy
    Bill was a great man,that taught me a lot over the years. He will be missed but never forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and friends.

  20. Roxanne &!family, we were so sorry to hear of this tragedy. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers

  21. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.

  22. Roxanne, Matt, Jimmy and family so very sorry to for you loss of great guy Bill. Bill be dearly missed by all.
    Our thoughts, prayers, love and biggest hugs are with all.

  23. Roxi and Family We are so sorry to hear about Bill our thoughts and prayers are with you. Robert, Dellia, and Kids

  24. Roxanne,
    I am so sorry and shocked to hear about Bill. I really wish there was something I could say or do that would be of some help. Words cannot say what we are all feeling. Keep all the wonderful memories close and just know that you have a million friends that will do whatever to help. I will be thinking of you on the 4th but can not be there as we have another funeral service to go to that day. Be sure to take care of yourself and if you need to talk you can give me a call. I will be here if I can help you with anything.

  26. Roxanne and families,
    We are sending our thoughts and prayers. The Lord will wrap his arms around all of you and give comfort.

    Prayers sent from;
    Kimberly Neuhardt Neiffer
    Larisa Neiffer Watson
    Tanner Neiffer
    LaToya Neiffer Gardner

  27. Roxanne and Family, I am deeply saddened to hear about Billy. I have such fond memories of him from when we were young kids.

    My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this very difficult time. 💔

  28. Prayers and thoughts to you and your family. So sorry for your loss. Matt and Cherrie Beyer

  29. Sincerest Sympathy to the Harding families and their extended families, thoughts and prayers to you all.

  30. Roxanne and Family, we are so sorry to hear of your incredible loss. Sending love and prayers your way. May God and your wonderful memories bring comfort during this horrible time.

  31. So sorry about Bill, very nice and kind man. Roxane, jimmy, and Matt you know we are here for you guys, anything you need ! My prayers are with you guys. He’ll be greatly missed!

  32. Roxanne, Jimmy and Matt,

    So many prayers and thoughts are coming your way from Trent and I. We know how strong you all are but know we are here if we are needed.

  33. Roxanne we are so sorry to hear about Bill. Our thoughts and prayer are with you, your boys & families.
    Hugs for you all.

  34. ROXANNA AND FAMILY, WE AT THE HELMS CANNOT BELIEVVE THIS HAPPENED. THE LORD WANTED OR NEEDED HIM MORE THAN WE DID. I SAW YOU AT COLES PARTY AND YOU AND BILL LOOKED SO HAPPY. I WISH THERE IS SOMETHING I CAN SAY THAT WILL TAKE AWAY THE HURT. WE NO HE IS IN GOOD HANDS AND THAT THE LORD WILL HOLD YOU AND THE FAMILY TENDERLY IN HIS ARMS. GOD BLESS ALL. LOVE GARY AND PAT HELM

  35. Dorothy and Martha Nottveit
    So sorry for your loss your loved one. You are in are in my prayers and my thoughts to you too all of your family

  37. We are so saddened to hear of this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole family.
    So sorry for your loss, he was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed. God bless all of you.

  39. So sorry about your loss. Prayers to you and your family. Iam Joetta grandma

  40. So sorry for your loss couldn’t believe it, he will be missed

  41. Roxanne, Matt and Jimmy,
    So sorry for your loss. Prayers for all of you

  42. So very sorry for your loss. Our prayers for all. God be with you during your hardest times and bring you many great happy memories.
    Gerome and Rita Wemmer

  43. Roxie & family – So terribly sorry to hear of your devastating loss. We are praying for God’s comfort for each and every one of you.

  44. Roxanne and Family, We are so very sorry! You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the Lord hold you so very close as He gets you through this hard time.

  45. ROXANNE AND FAMILIES: WE ARE SO SHOCKED AND SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF BILL. YOU ARE IN OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS. MAY GOD HOLD YOU IN HIS ARMS UNTIL THE HURT TURNS INTO MEMORIES.

  47. SO sorry … thoughts and prayers are with you and your family if there is anything We can do please let me know .

  48. Sorry for your loss, There’s no words that can express the sorrow you and your family are going through

  49. I am sad and sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I wish you peace and comfort in this sad and sorrowful time.

  50. Please know I am thinking of you Roxanne and sending you love. May you find peace someday. I can’t think of another couple more devoted to each other.

  51. Roxanne, Jimmy, Matt and families. We were so very sorry to hear about Bill. We still can’t believe it. We are thinking of you, Matt, and Jimmy. Roxanne, thank you for sharing Bill’s life with Armando and I. We will forever be grateful for our Friday Night Dinner’s that were always filled with laughter and good conversation. We miss you Bill Harding 💔 ❤ ❤ . We are so sorry for your loss. Sending our prayers and condolences to you and your family 　 　

  52. Roxanne and family I am so sorry to hear about Bill, he was one if the best.

  53. Roxanne, Jimmy, Matt. I am sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. You have my deepest condolences and sympathy.

  54. Roxanne and Family;
    I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May God comfort you all
    at this time in His loving arms and give you peace.

  55. Bruce & Shellie Wood
    Roxanne and familly. We are so sorry for your loss.
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  56. Roxanne and entire Family, Our condolences on your loss of Bill. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Diane and Doug

  60. Roxanne, Matt and Jimmy and families, we are so very sorry for your loss.

  62. We are so sorry for your loss. Your Family will be in our prayers. I always enjoyed talking with Bill, what a nice man, and Gentlemen. May you Rest In Peace Bill.
    Bob and Karen

  63. We are so sorry for your loss and keep all your fond memories close to your heart! Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.

  64. We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

  65. Foxy and family, we are so sorry for your unexpected loss. May you find peace in the memory’s and community support.

  66. Roxanne, Matt, Jimmie and all of Bill’s family – We were so shocked and saddened to hear of this tragic loss. May you hold each other close and keep your memories ever present. Our prayers of comfort are with you all.

  67. I got to be one of those Kircher Kids that Bill and Ben coached.
    Patience and kindness were so evident in Bill, even as a young man. That smile was always a part of his greetings over the years. Roxanne, may Christ give you a peace only He can provide and a joy in all the memories.

  68. Roxanne and Family … We are so very sorry for your tragic loss … No one can ever be ready for this … Bill was definately “one of a kind” and we all loved him for that! His memories and life stories will never get lost because where ever he went, he left an impression. HUGS to you all and know that the Lord has you wrapped tight in His arms

  69. Roxanne and boys, my heart goes out to you all. Sending strength and prayers .

  70. Roxanne and family,
    Always enjoyed visiting with Bill at ranch rodeos and was fortunate to have seen him at the fair last year, he was a man of many stories. He will be dearly missed by all who loved and knew him. Our hearts go out to you and your family. May you take comfort in each other and all the memories shared. Sending you strength and prayers.

  72. Roxanne,
    I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember meeting Bill in Williston and recognizing in him a true gentleman. I still recall our conversation. I will be keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

  73. Our prayers are with you all praying for god to give you the strength now and the days to come

  74. Roxanne and family,
    I am so sorry to hear about Bill’s passing he was a wonderful man and so involved in our community. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

  75. Roxanne and family,
    I am deeply saddened by the loss that you and your family have encountered. Bill was such a great person. He will live on in your memories forever. Words, however kind, can’t mend your heartache, but those who care for you share your grief and wish you comfort and peace. My heartfelt condolences.

  77. So very sorry to hear about Bill. Hugs and prayers to all of you. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal.

  78. Roxanne, Matt, & Jimmy
    Hopefully the years of memories can fill a small part of hole Bill’s lose has left you with. He was a gentle giant, not just in stature but as a person. It will always be an honor to call him our friend. John & Candy

  80. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all…treasure the memories. Though we didn’t see Bill often, always thought we could call him a friend..

  82. Roxanne, Matt, Jimmy and family,

    Our heart is breaking for you all. Bill was an outstanding man and will be missed by all that knew him.
    Wishing you all strength and comfort through this difficult time.

  83. Roxanne I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you.

  84. Sorry to hear of your loss. Didn’t know him very well but he seem like a nice guy and a straight shooter may God be with him and the family.

  85. Bills passing is a great loss to Miles City, he embodied what is best about this community.

  86. Roxanne n family,
    What a tragic loss, one of the kindess ‘cowboys’ I’ve ever known! Many prayers for you and your family!

  87. I am so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. I remember him fondly from HS, a really great guy. My prayers are with your family.

  88. To Aunt Willene and all the extended Harding family. I’m so very sorry to hear about Billy”s passing. May God wrap his healing arms around you all…to help you through this tough time.
    Sending so much love and many prayers to all of you.

  89. Roxanne and family,
    So sorry to here of Bill’s passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

  90. Roxanne, Willene, Darrell and all the family, My sincere condolences on the loss of Bill. I will keep you all in prayer and hope for peace for you i the coming years. Willene, I remember fondly the good times we had together so many years ago. I’m so sad for you all.
    Mary Ann Stockhill Liles

  93. Matt, Jimmy, and Roxanne I am so sorry for your loss. Bill was a great guy. Sending my thoughts and prayers.

  94. Roxie, Matt, Jim, D.L., Willene, Craig, all family: So sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. You were all great clients and more importantly good friends. D.L. goes way back with the Carranco’s. Bill never said a lot when in office but I always knew the wheels were turning. I am richer for knowing him. He will be missed. Best wishes to all.

  95. So sorry to hear about your loss Roxanne. Condolences to you and the boys

  96. Roxanne and family,

    My heart aches for you. What a devastating loss for all of you and for all of us. Bill was a great guy. Sending you love and strength for the days to come.

  97. Roxanne, Jimmy and Matt, We are so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. May God give you strength and courage at this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless all of you.

  98. Roxanne, Jimmy, Matt and family,
    There simply isn’t the words as there isn’t anyone else i’ve ever met, or expect to meet, like Bill. He was one of the good ones, through and through. I’m thankful and darn happy to have known Bill. The way Bill looked at things is a lesson we all could learn from – keep it simple, be gentle but firm when needed, be humble, don’t be afraid to speak up but know when to shut up, too, cut the crap and get it done. Bill will be someone i admire for the rest of my life. Nothing will ever fill the void but please know i’m always there for whatever, whenever. You’re in my thoughts and prayers now and in the days ahead.

  99. Dear Roanne
    I am so very sorry for your loss.
    My warmest and deepest thoughts are with you and
    Your entire family

  100. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. We wish you peace and comfort as you grieve.
    -Mike & Jamie Etchemendy

  101. We are so sorry for your loss, our prayers and thoughts are with you.

  102. To all of the Harding Family, We are so sadden, by your loss, of a great man. Great Husband and Father and Son and Brother. We pray our Lord Jesus will help each of you through this difficult time.
    Jon & Becky Bass

  104. Roxanne and Family,
    I am so sad. Bob Pauley, introduced me to DL, in 1958, when Bob, Bobbie, Tommy Venable ( and probably Bill, but maybe not, owing Bill Pauley was so young then) and I were riding with the S H cowboys. So, I guess I have enjoyed knowing DL for more than 60 years. I never knew Bill well, though I have known, Roxanne, as true friend for decades. Bill Harding, it can be said and spread all over America, and in Heaven, was one of the best of the very best, in everything he ever did; sports, rodeo, ranching, family, everything.
    May GOD bless this Harding Family forever and ever and ever and ever.

    All my love,
    Rob Shipley

  105. May the Lord walk with you and your family. All our prayers, hugs and thoughts are with you all. What a wonderful man Bill was and our whole community and surrounding areas will miss him dearly.

    Love and care for you all.
    Jim, Jean and family.

  106. We are so sorry for your loss! There are no words. Know your in our prayers!

  108. Roxanne so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing . My condolences, sending prayers and strength your way .

  110. Rox, My heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult time. Big hugs to you always.

  111. Roxanne, Jimmy, Matt and Family, With tremendous sympathy to all of you during this sad time. May cherished memories, family and friends help you through the loss of your beloved “Bill”.

  112. Roxanne and family,
    I was so terribly sad to hear of this news. Such a terrible tragedy–my heart is so heavy for you. It is comforting knowing that we will see our loved ones again–while we wait for that time; know that there are so many that care–Lean on God; and your friends. My love and prayers to all of you Mary Dillon

  113. Roxanne and family, sending sincere condolences to you all. What a shocking tragedy. We are so very sorry.
    Mike and Linda Niedge

  114. Roxanne and family, sending sincere condolences. What a shocking loss. Our deepest sympathy.
    Linda and Mike

  115. Harding family I am truly saddened to learn of Bill’s passing. He was one of the most humble men I have ever known. Prayers for peace and comfort during this most difficult time. RIP Cowboy

  116. I am so saddened, by this shocking news. I had Bill I’m my science class in high school. A very quiet, polite young man, always very serious type. He had a gentle way about him though, a smile that you had to catch quickly, but it was there. I know he made this earth a much better place, for all those, who knew him. Sending our prayers out to you, in this time of grieving. God bless.

  117. My heart breaks for you. I was out of town and just found out. May our Lord help you through your pain. God bless your family and may those precious memories help to sustain you! You are a strong family! You were taught well by a good man!

Add your thoughts and memories. Upon approval they will be added.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *