Harold is survived by his dedicated wife of 61 years, Judith (Puckett); his children, Karen (Jim) Hickman of Hickory, North Carolina, Teka (Joe) O’Neill of Glasford, and Dean (Melanie) Spiller of Greenville, South Carolina; and his beloved ten grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren who adored him.
As a child, Harold spent his days helping his mother garden and exploring the woods around his home, fostering a love for the outdoors and simple living that would remain with him throughout his life. His young adulthood was filled with daring adventures of racing motorcycles and living to tell the tales. He proudly served in the Army Reserves, stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, where he worked in the kitchen and met good buddies. His time there became a treasure trove of stories, which he recounted with humor and vivid detail for decades, sharing his camaraderie and adventures with anyone lucky enough to listen.
On October 7, 1963, Harold married the love of his life, Judie Puckett, in an intimate and heartfelt courtroom ceremony. With open arms, he embraced the role of father to her two young daughters, Karen and Teka, who now cannot imagine their lives without him as their dad. Years later, he was blessed to reunite with his son, Dean, whose striking resemblance to Harold—in looks, character, and genuine kindness—was unmistakable. In 2015, 53 years after their marriage, Judie arranged for Harold to return to the courtroom and legally adopt their two daughters as his own, making his commitment to being their father official and affirming the deep love and devotion he had shown them all along.
As a commercial union painter, Harold worked on numerous landmark buildings across the region. He loved pointing them out to his children and grandchildren, sharing memories of climbing smokestacks and atriums without a hint of fear. Harold was also a talented craftsman, known for carving exquisite duck decoys in his shed—a space where he could lose himself for hours in his work. When not in his shed, he could often be found on the river, casting a line, or in his yard, tending to his trees and relishing the quiet pace of nurturing a garden.
Harold’s love for fishing, hunting, and the outdoors was matched only by his passion for storytelling. His tales—always captivating, often larger than life—drew listeners into his world of adventure and humor. He never shied away from a challenge, finding solutions to problems with creativity and determination, no matter how unconventional.
Above all, Harold loved his family fiercely and made each member feel uniquely valued. His loyalty, kindness, and larger-than-life presence leave an indelible mark on those who knew him. While his family mourns his loss deeply, they rejoice in the assurance that Harold is walking with Jesus, undoubtedly swapping fishing stories and resting in the joy of eternal peace.
Per Harold’s wishes, there will be no formal services, and cremation rites will be accorded with Sedgwick Funeral Homes & Crematory in Canton. Memorials can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project-P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675 or to ALSAC/ St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To leave online condolences please visit www.sedgwickfuneralhomes.com
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