Newell Harding, better known as Perry, Pepe, or daddy, departed this world on March 1, 2022, exactly 61 years after he entered. He was a lifelong resident of Hartford, CT. 

A musician since early adolescence, Perry was known as an extremely talented guitar player; from rock and roll to electric blues his sounds could rival the greats. Perry’s life was the embodiment of the riffs he mastered. An affable man, children and adults flocked to Perry for his sage advice, colorful tales from his youth, and interesting conversation. 

Perry was predeceased by his mother Miriam E. Hendricks, father Oliver Harding, and brother Leonard Hendricks. 

To both celebrate his life, and mourn his passing he leaves behind his lifelong partner Maria “Mary Jo” Freitas. Son’s Jahmell (Jamie) and Jaime (Elizabeth), daughter’s Jasmin (Troy) and Jade (Patrick)  grandchildren Keyana, Kai, Alex, Alessandra, Skylar and Jahmell Jr. His brother, Peter (Janet) and a host of other close family and friends.