Caryl Ann Harding, born on September 22, 1950, in Boston, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a deeply cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose kindness and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew her.

Caryl eventually found her forever home in Lompoc, California, a place where she created lasting memories and built a life filled with love, comfort, and family.

Caryl was the beloved daughter of David W. Harding and Marie Rose Carmos-Smalley, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was the eldest of her siblings—Joann Boos, Gwen Arment, Leslie Harding-Steed, David “Davey” Harding (preceded in passing), and Becky Ruiz—and from an early age, she embodied warmth, compassion, and quiet strength.

Affectionately known as “Candy,” a nickname lovingly given to her by her father because of her sweet nature, Caryl lived up to that name every day of her life. She truly did not have a mean bone in her body. She was never confrontational, always gentle, and consistently kind. Her presence brought comfort, and her heart was open to everyone. To know her was to be loved by her.

Caryl built her career as a beautician in cosmetology, where she not only helped people look their best but also made them feel valued and cared for. Her work reflected who she was—someone who uplifted others through both her talent and her kindness.

She found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. She loved reading books, watching classic movies, and listening to “Oldies but Goodies.” Her favorite song was “Angel Baby,” and she especially loved the soundtrack from the movie American Graffiti. She would often dance to the music for hours, completely lost in the joy it brought her—a reflection of her light, free-spirited, and loving nature.

Caryl is survived by her loving children, Gerard Martin Aguilar and Elizabeth Marie Rivera, who will carry her love forward every day. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Ronni Renae Aguilar, Michale Rodreguiz, Andrew Majia, Johnathon Gage Aguilar, and Joseph Rivera. She was preceded in passing by her beloved grandson, Gerard Martin Aguilar III.

She will always be remembered as a truly sweet, kind, and loving person—a woman whose gentle nature left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her legacy is one of love, warmth, and quiet strength.

A memorial service will be held on April 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary Lompoc, ca.

Burial will take place at Galt Cemetery, with details to be announced.