House Resolution 1757
By: Representatives Howard of the 129th, Myles of the 126th, Gilliard of the 162nd, and Reese
of the 140th
A RESOLUTION
Honoring the life and memory of Reverend Howard D. Harden; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens
with the passing of Reverend Howard D. Harden of Spring Grove Baptist Church in
Hephzibah, Georgia, who peacefully transitioned on March 12, 2026; and
WHEREAS, Reverend Howard D. Harden was a devout servant of God, a faithful pastor, and
an indispensable pillar in the community; and
WHEREAS, following his graduation from the Burke County School System, he served as
a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Army, valiantly and
courageously protecting his fellow Americans; and
WHEREAS, he was united in love and marriage to his wife, Shirley, and was blessed with
seven remarkable children, 18 wonderful grand– and great-grandchildren, and one
exceptional great-great-grandchild; and
WHEREAS, after accepting the call to gospel ministry and being ordained in March 1989,
Reverend Howard D. Harden served for decades as pastor of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church and
Spring Grove Baptist Church, guiding the spiritual, emotional, and mental growth of
countless congregants; and
WHEREAS, his life reflected unwavering faith, compassionate leadership, and a deep
commitment to shepherding and uplifting those he was called to serve—he touched countless
lives with his wisdom, encouragement, and guidance, leaving a lasting imprint on each
congregation he led; and
WHEREAS, beyond the pulpit, he was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and
grandfather whose steady presence and kindness brought comfort and inspiration to all of
those closest to him; and
WHEREAS, a compassionate and generous man who demonstrated his commitment to
witnessing Christ through word and deed, Reverend Howard D. Harden will long be
remembered for his love of family, friendship, and community and will be missed by all who
had the great fortune of knowing him.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body join in honoring the life and memory of Reverend Howard D.
Harden and express their deepest and most sincere regret at his passing.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the
family of Reverend Howard D. Harden.