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.”
