Stella K. Hartington

Stella Kathleen Hartington (nee Harding) died peacefully on November 13, 2024, at the age of 89. 

Stella was born on September 5, 1935, in Hayes, West London, England.  She was the only child of Ernest Kirby Harding and Winifred Harding (nee Webb).  She grew up in post-war London and graduated from Ealing Technical College.  In 1957, Stella emigrated to Toronto, Canada, where she fell in love with David Hartington.  Stella and David married and moved to the United States in 1964.  They settled in Overland Park, KS and had two children. Stella worked for many years as an administrative assistant at DeMarche Associates, retiring in the year 2000. After retirement, Stella volunteered at Operation Wildlife in Linwood, KS. Stella and David traveled extensively until his death in 2003. They especially loved to travel to the Smoky Mountains in their RV. Stella later moved to Ocean Pines, MD where she enjoyed kayaking, volunteering with the Kiwanis Club and Assateague “Pony Patrol,” and spending time with her children and cherished grandsons.  Stella was a huge sports fan who loved to root for the Jayhawks and Chiefs.  In her later years, Stella visited Thailand, Australia, Italy, Ireland and her beloved England. 

Stella is survived by her daughter, Susan Hartington, son Keith and daughter-in-law Kerry Hartington, and grandsons Simon and Justin, all of Williamstown, NJ.  Stella leaves behind many dear friends around the world with whom she shared her adventures. 

Memorial services will be held in 2025. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Operation Wildlife, 23375 Guthrie Rd., Leawood, KS 66052 or Diakonia, 12747 Old Bridge Rd, Ocean City, MD 21842.

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