With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Al Harden, formerly of Covington, a beloved husband, father, pappy and coach, who left this world on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026, at the age of 82.
He was born Nov. 18, 1943, in Danville, Illinois, to the late Effrey Fritch and Thelma (Dixon) Harden.
Al lived a life filled with passion, purpose, and an unyielding love for his family and the game of basketball.
Al was a proud graduate of Covington High School, where he was a member of the 1960 historic basketball team that went deep into the state tournament and also played on the baseball team. His talent earned him a scholarship to Indiana University, where he played basketball for four wonderful years before graduating with his bachelor’s degree. His love for the game led him to become the first head basketball coach at Fountain Central High School from 1965 to 1970, where he inspired countless young athletes and also taught history.
Al later took his coaching skills to Colorado, serving as an assistant coach at the University of Denver before ascending to the role of head coach, where he made a lasting impact on his players. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, Al was inducted into the Greater Illiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.
After his coaching days, Al enjoyed a successful career as an executive at Converse Incorporated, where he signed pro athletes and coaches of all sports, including legendary athletes like Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, further solidifying his legacy in the world of sports.
In retirement, Al found joy in his community and faith. He cherished his time attending Woodland Heights Christian Church in Crawfordsville, where he loved meeting new people and engaging with friends. Most importantly, Al adored his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless happiness.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Myrna Lynn (Coleman) Harden; two sons, Rob Harden of Covington and Roger (Gina) Harden of Carrollton, Kentucky; six grandchildren, Joseph (Sarah) Harden of Georgetown, Kentucky, Rosalyn Harden of Tallahassee, Florida, Ryan Harden of Manhattan, New York, Ryan Cooley of Frankfort, Kentucky, Sarah (Tanner) Leigh of Harrodsburg, Kentucky, and Olivia (Noah) McGhee of Bowling Green, Kentucky; and three great-grandchildren, Collis Lillard, Cason Leigh and Naomi McGhee.
He was preceded in death by his parents and son Rodney Harden.
Visitation will be at Sterling Christian Church, 701 S. Sterling Ave., Veedersburg, on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 10 a.m., with Jon Elardo officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Covington.
Share memories and condolences online at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.
