Richard Haralson

Richard Howard Haralson, age 93, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2024, in Dublin, Georgia. Born on July 17, 1930, in Thomaston, Georgia, to the late Ozzie Howard Haralson and Mary Etta Waters Haralson, Richard's life was a testament to his unwavering dedication to family, service, and community.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Kimple Haralson and his brother-in-law, Herb Mullis. 

Richard's legacy began in his hometown, where he was raised alongside his loving siblings George Haralson, Ozie Haralson, Faye Allen, David (Barbara) Haralson, Paula (Bobby) Williams, Jim (Barbara) Haralson, and Ted Haralson. He enjoyed spending time with his brother-in-law, Roger (Sue) Mullis and sister-in-law, Sheirlyn (Dave) Cox.  He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force, an experience that shaped his resilient and disciplined spirit. After his military service, he was committed to public service extended to his role as a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service, from which he retired after 20 years of dedicated service. Richard continued to protect and serve as the Chief of Police for the City of Irwinton, from which he retired after 10 years of service.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Mercedes Haralson, and their daughters, Carol Haralson, Kathy

Thompson, Christine Murphy, Donna (Joe) Harvill, and Rhonda (Chuck) Lowery. Loving known as Papa, his legacy flourishes through his grandchildren, Michelle (Scott) Snay, Leigh (Robby) Crammer, Brandy Thompson, Stephanie Barton, Jay Thompson, Richard Murphy, Michael (Carin) Jones, Kim (Mark) Clark, Cliff (Ashley) Lowery, Bryan (Malorie) Harvill, Chase (Dana) Lowery, Michael (Nicole) Harvill, and Kyle Lowery. His joy was multiplied with the arrival of 27 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his stories and values.

Richard's life was enriched by his involvement in various associations that reflected his interests and values. He was a respected member of the Gordon Masonic Lodge #240 F&AM and a faithful member of New Bethel Baptist Church. His love for golf and cards provided him with countless hours of enjoyment and fellowship. A captivating storyteller, Richard could often be found regaling family and friends with tales of his life experiences. His passion for history and genealogy was not only a hobby but also a way of connecting with his heritage and sharing it with the next generations.

His engaging stories and historical knowledge were matched by his profound love for his family. Richard was a loving husband, father, and grandfather whose guidance and affection were the cornerstone of his family. His unwavering support and wisdom will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Richard's influence extended beyond his immediate family to his nieces and nephews, including two special nieces, Anna Powell and Leigh Potter, who held a unique place in his heart.

Funeral services will be held Sunday April 21, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. at New Bethel Baptist Church with rev. Keith Collins officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. at the church.

The committal service will follow at 4:00 P.M. at    

Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Michael Jones, Jay Thompson, Richard Murphy, Cliff Lowery, Bryan Harvill, Michael Harvill, Chase Lowery, Kyle Lowery and Mark Clark.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks, that contributions in memory of Richard, be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105-9959 or to Shriners Children’s, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, South Carolina 29605.

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