Jim Harding

Jim Harding of Amarillo, Texas, passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a life that was deeply lived and widely felt.

Memorial service will be at 6:00 PM, Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, 2800 Paramount. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Jim was a man defined by strength—not only physical strength, but a quiet, steady strength of character. To those who knew him, he was consistent, disciplined, and deeply committed to the people and principles he believed in.

His love for fitness was not a passing interest, but a lifelong devotion. For most of Jim’s life he could be found on his Schwinn Airdyne bicycle with incredible determination riding for a full hour daily at maximum resistance or many times as a younger man preparing for a 10K run. He believed in showing up every day, doing the work, and staying true to his fitness lifestyle.

That same discipline carried into every part of his life. Jim founded The Muscle Mill, Amarillo’s first weight-lifting gym, not to build a business, but to help his friends and others interested in improving themselves. He encouraged others when they were struggling, pushed them when they needed it, and believed in their potential even when they didn’t yet believe in themselves. Many in this community carry his influence in their lives to this day.

A proud graduate of Amarillo High School (Class of 1954), Jim went on to become a letterman for the legendary Oklahoma State Cowboys wrestling program in 1957 and 1958, a time he carried with pride throughout his life. Wrestling was more than a sport to him—it was a foundation for discipline, resilience, and respect. He shared that passion freely, mentoring young athletes and helping guide many high school wrestlers toward college opportunities they might not have had otherwise.

Beyond athletics, Jim devoted 53 years of service to the Amarillo Post Office. He was dependable in the truest sense—someone others could count on, day after day, year after year.

But above all his accomplishments, Jim Harding will be remembered for who he was as a person. Kind. Steady. Humble. He treated people with respect, regardless of their station in life, and had a way of making others feel seen and valued.

His presence made a difference. His example still does.

Jim Harding was deeply loved, and his legacy will continue in the lives of those he strengthened, encouraged, and inspired.