James A. "Jim" Harden

JAMES A. "JIM" HARDEN, 87, husband of the late Marianne Gregory Harden, passed away peacefully in his home in the early morning of Thursday, September 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

A native of Graham, NC, Jim was a son of the late John William and Rachel Johnston Harden. He graduated from Graham High School, where he served as Senior Class President. Jim furthered his education at Elon College prior to joining the Army. In the Army, he served as a communications officer at The White House under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson.

Jim’s professional journey began in the textile industry, where he took on roles in personnel management for Burlington Industries and later Salem Carpets. Jim and his family moved to Aiken in 1974, and he worked in human resources for R. E. Phelon.

In the early 1990’s Jim left the corporate world and opened Aiken Muffler, a venture he operated for many years.

Jim was an avid fisherman and was a member of the Aiken Bass Club.

Surviving are his daughter, Kathy Harden; son, James A. “Jimmy” Harden, Jr. (Susan); three grandsons, Devan Harden, Noah Moseley and Ryan Moseley. Also surviving are two nieces, Dana Harden-Hoewt (John) and Jamie Harden Barrett (Carter). In addition to his beloved wife and parents, Jim was preceded in death by a brother, J. W. “Bill” Harden and infant twin brothers.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday morning, September 13th at 11 o’clock in South Aiken Presbyterian Church with The Rev. Jason Hammersley officiating. Honorary Pallbearers will be Robbie Richardson, Greg Richardson, Kevin Hair, Paul Simon, Chris Devore and Ron Moseley.

The family will receive friends at the church following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to South Aiken Presbyterian Church, 1711 Whiskey Rd., Aiken, SC.

SHELLHOUSE - RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC