Maylo Harding

Maylo Harding passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by loved ones. Born on July 3, 1938, in New York City, Mary Louise Lewis Harding (“Maylo”) lived a life full of warmth, resilience, and deep connections with family and friends.

Her early years took her from the bustle of New York to the sunshine of Studio City and eventually Rancho Santa Fe, where her love for the beach began. A proud graduate of UCSB, Maylo formed lifelong friendships and met her future husband, John Harding, while active in the Pi Beta Phi sorority. John was an avid surfer, and Maylo became a fixture on the beaches of Rincon, the Hollister Ranch, and Hawaii.

Maylo and John married shortly after college and began their life together in Santa Barbara, eventually settling in Montecito. There, they raised their children and built a life centered around family and community. Maylo worked as a substitute teacher and later joined John in their real estate appraisal business, balancing work with her passion for family and social life at Knollwood Tennis Club and later Birnamwood.

She was a devoted mother, always present and supportive, and later a loving grandmother, hosting her grandchildren for cherished summers at “Nona and Papa’s Manners Bootcamp.” Her home was a hub of warmth, laughter, and open-hearted hospitality. Maylo was known for her adventurous spirit – traveling, skiing, and celebrating any occasion with friends and family. Even in the face of life’s challenges, including her husband’s Alzheimer’s and her own battle with cancer, she remained optimistic and strong, embodying a “can-do” spirit that inspired all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Chris Harding and Jill Harding, grandchildren, Kendall Harding and Kaila Harding, and a wide circle of dear friends who will miss her deeply. She will also be missed by her brother- and sister-in-law, Jeffrey and Marilyn Harding, and nephew Matthew Harding. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched with her kindness, humor, and unwavering love.

A private celebration of life was held in her backyard, just as she wished, surrounded by close friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Maylo’s memory to the City of Hope or an organization of your choice.