In a 50-year career, Harding worked for the likes of Hotels4u, Travelscene and Rainbow Holidays.
He died on January 11.
Mark Tanzer, chief executive of Abta said, “It was with deep regret that Abta heard today of the death of ex-Abta president John Harding.
“John was passionate about the travel industry, particularly championing the interests of the independent sector.
“Over the years John worked on various Abta committees and the board, before finally being elected as president when serving as a director at city break specialist Travelscene.
“John will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him, both professionally and personally.”
John’s family have extended invitations to his funeral, which will be held at 2pm on February 10 at the Three Counties crematorium, Braintree, Essex.
The wake will be held at the Green Man, Lindsell, Essex, after 3pm.
His fiancé, Christine Cox has extended the invitation to all who want to pay their respects and has asked for prior indication of potential attendees by February 5 if possible, at buntystokes@hotmail.co.uk
Rather than flowers the family has suggested a donation to Cancer Research.
