FRANCES C. HARDING

FRANCES C. HARDING

1943 - 2026

Frances Charlene (Baker) Harding

1943 – 2026

Frances C. Harding, 82, of Santa Maria, California, passed away on June 10, 2026. She was born in 1943 in Artesia, New Mexico and moved to California at a very young age. Her family originally came to the state during the Dust Bowl migration in search of work, and ultimately planted deep roots in the Santa Maria Valley, where she remained until her passing.

Fran attended local schools and has maintained close friendships with many of her SMHS classmates, not only from her graduating class, but from many of the “60s” classes. She still attended a monthly luncheon with those ladies, and in fact, she’d just enjoyed a fun luncheon with the group the day before her passing. She treasured her long-term friendships, of which she had many, including the “Ya Ya’s”. Fran had an infectious laugh and smile and she never met a stranger. To know Fran was to love her.

Fran worked at several local establishments during her lifetime, including Sears and Sousa Brothers. She had her own cleaning business and was an in-home caregiver for many years, becoming close friends with all those she cared for.

Fran and her previously deceased husband, Mel Harding, were founding members of the local Menudo Club and she was actively involved with the VFW, Moose and Eagles organizations. She and her sister Linda were avid karaoke enthusiasts. Fran most loved singing Patsy Cline songs and was well known for her rendition of “Crazy”. Fran and Mel enjoyed car shows and cruises and showing their 1940 Ford Coupe while participating in the local Bent Axles Car Club.

Fran is predeceased by her husband Mel, her sister Janie Grigg, and brothers Ray Baker, Charles Baker and Sammie Baker. She is survived by her sister Linda Mecham and brother Bob O’Brien; son and daughter-in-law Frank Soares IV and Rita Soares, and her daughter Dena R. Soares. She was known as Gramma Fran by her grandchildren, Kyle, Stacia, Frankie, as well as her step-grandchildren, Cassandra, Joshua, and Katherine. She leaves behind 18 great-grandchildren and one great great-granddaughter. She is also survived by her ex-husband and wife Frank Soares III and Yolanda Soares, who have remained close friends, sister-in-law Mona Baker, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. All were fortunate to have had her in their lives.

Fran was wife, Mom, Sassy, Auntie Frany, Gramma Fran, sister, friend, and was loved by all. She will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

A memorial service will be held at Magner-Maloney Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the Santa Maria Eagles Lodge.