Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
FUNERAL HOME
Donald Harlin Obituary
Chaplain Major General Donald J. Harlin, U. S. Air Force (Retired), 79, died Monday, February 9, 2015 at LaGrange Hospice, LaGrange, GA.
Chaplain Harlin was born August 14, 1935 and raised in New York, NY, the son of Edward and Bess Harlin. He and his wife moved to LaGrange, GA in 2006. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Matthew Harlin; sister-in-law, Polly Harlin; brother-in-law, John Brydon.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 56 years, Carol (McCandless) Harlin; his son, Tim Harlin and his wife Beth (Gresham); his daughter in-law Cheryl (Celis); grandchildren, TJ, Katie, Rachel, Rebecca; brother and sister-in-law, Wilbur and Caroline Harlin; brother-in-law, Doug Harlin; sister-in-law, Norma Brydon; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jim and Gina McCandless; 18 nephews and nieces; surviving guide dog and loyal companion, Valerie; and deceased guide dog and loyal companion, Goldie.
Chaplain Harlin was the Chief of Chaplains, United States Air Force, from 1991 until 1995. His military career spanned thirty years. Chaplain Harlin is an ordained minister of the American Baptist Churches, USA. His civilian pastorates were in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, and Freeland/Hazleton, Pennsylvania. He holds the Bachelor of Science degree from Nyack College, Master of Divinity degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and the Doctor of Divinity degree (honorary) from Nyack College. He is also a graduate of the Air Force's Air Command and Staff College, and the Hadley School for the Blind.
Don began his Air Force career in 1965. Among his favorite assignments were Arlington National Cemetery, and faculty member and Commandant of the Air Force Chaplain School in Montgomery, Alabama. His overseas assignments were in Vietnam, Okinawa (Japan), and Korea. He served as the Command Chaplain of Air Education and Training Command, Air University, and Air Combat Command. He became Deputy Chief of Chaplains (Brigadier General) in 1988, and Chief of Chaplains in 1991.
His major military awards include the Distinguished Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters, Defense Superior Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters. He was awarded Outstanding Military Chaplain of the Year by the American Baptist Churches, USA, in 1977 and 1995, the only chaplain to receive that award twice.
Chaplain Harlin also served as the Air Force Association (AFA) National Chaplain. He is a Gold Lifetime Member of the Air Force Association, Military Officers Association of America, Blinded Veterans Association, Disabled American Veterans and the 8th Air Force Historical Society. He was appointed by Governor Bill Richardson to the State Rehabilitation Council of the New Mexico Commission for the Blind. In 2005 Governor Richardson appointed him as one of three commissioners on the New Mexico Commission for the Blind. He served two terms as the President of the New Mexico chapter of the Blinded Veterans Association. He also attended The Southwest Blind Rehabilitation Center in Tucson, Arizona, and the Southeast Blind Rehabilitation Center in Birmingham, Alabama.
In October, 2006, Chaplain Harlin participated in dedication ceremonies for the newly-inaugurated Air Force Memorial, in Arlington, Virginia, which were presided over by President George W. Bush. He also served on the Board of Directors of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, LaGrange, GA.
Funeral Services will be held 11:00 am Friday, February 13, 2015 at First United Methodist Church of LaGrange with Dr. Harold Lawrence officiating. The gathering of family and friends will follow the service in the church fellowship hall. Burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to one of these worthwhile organizations: Guide Dogs for the Blind [[email protected]]; First United Methodist Church of LaGrange [[email protected]]; LaGrange Hospice [www.wghealth.org]; or the Air Force Association [www.afa.org]
Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting www.shlagrange.com.
Arrangements are by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, GA 30240 (706) 884-8636
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Harlin
Dave Bena
March 6, 2016
Dear Carol,
You are aware, I'm sure, that Don was an effective mentor to so many of us. I distinctly remember the times he spent with me over the years, carefully maturing me as a caring chaplain. He just knew how to stretch us without breaking us! Prayers for you as you grieve and allow the loving arms of Jesus to enfold you in his care.
Dave Bena
July 15, 2015
Dear Carol and family:
I missed you and Don a lot when you left West End and have thought about you all for years wondering where you were lately. I am so sorry to learn of Don's passing. A real loss to the churches and to you and family. Would love to hear from you. My email is [email protected] My sincere condolences to you and family re the loss of Don. He was a nice person and I liked him. Thinking of you all at this difficult time. With love and sympathy. Etta Parker
Ch Mark McGregor
April 30, 2015
May God console and strengthen you at this time of loss. Know that prayers and profound sympathies are being sent your way.
Mark & Grace Crumpton
April 30, 2015
Ms Carol,
My heart is broken for your loss. I Love you both so much and will miss Ch Harlin terribly. He was such an encouragement and example for me throughout my Chaplain Journey. I knew I could call him anytime. Please call me if you need anything
Mark and Grace Crumpton
John Von Almen
April 30, 2015
Carol and family, I was saddened to hear of Ch Harlin's passing away. He was a great inspiration at my first assignment to Kirtland AFB. I will always remember his advice, "John, there's no such thing as a bad assignment, just a bad attitude." I have tried to model those words of wisdom, and to date, all my assignments have been wonderful! We have lost a truly remarkable man of God. Blessings, John M. Von Almen (Alamogordo, NM)
Your Nellis Chapel Team
April 30, 2015
God's grace and comfort to Carol and Family, the Nellis AFB Chapel community sends its warmest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to your family. We are truly grateful for Chaplain Harlin's leadership and service for God and country. We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Ismael Rodriguez
April 30, 2015
Carol and family, the Tyndall AFB Chapel community sends its warmest and heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Chaplain Ismael Rodriguez (Wing Chaplain, 325 FW/HC Tyndall AFB, FL)
Rex Carpenter
April 21, 2015
Carol and family, Chaplain Harlin was a big inspiration to me and Louise at Kirtland AFB where he led the Adult Sunday School Class and ministered to any who were in need, at Bolling AFB Chapel Services, and at Maxwell AFB Chaplains School - teaching us how to do quality memorial services and other ministries. Always a Christian gentleman and outstanding mentor! He will be missed. Rex and Louise Carpenter (Retired USAF Chaplain & current Chaplain Endorser for the Free Methodist Church - USA) We would like to RSVP for his Memorial and Internment, May 13
March 24, 2015
Carol and family, Wilf and I send our condolences and our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Grace Kilawee called us a few days ago and told us that Don had passed away. We have precious memories of you and Don and baby Matthew arriving in Halifax in 1961. Fond memories of Don playing his guitar and leading the College and Career Group at West End. We also recall back in mid 1970s we visited Don at the Pentagon and he gave us a nice tour, also to Arlington Cemetery. So many years have passed and yet as I recall those years you both served among us - it doesn't seem so long ago. May God's peace be with you and keep you well and strong. Love to all Wilf and Audrey Peverill
March 24, 2015
The news of Rev. Harlin's passing has just reached us today. I want to pass along my deepest heartfelt sympathy to you and your family, Carol. You may not remember me but I have the warmest of memories of your time among us at West End Baptist in Halifax. You and Don made a great impression on me... as I know you did on many other young people. May you find comfort in the love of your family and friends, strength in your faith and peace in God's abiding presence. Grace (Kaiser)Gibson
Gerald & Fran Chancellor
March 11, 2015
We are saddened to learn of Don's passing. We have wonderful memories of serving under his leadership as MA at Bolling. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Brianna Sluder
March 8, 2015
I have such fond memories of Mr. Harlin walking around the cul-de-sac with his guide dog and visiting with us everyday when we got home from school. Always so friendly and joyful--You were wonderful neighbors! I was so sad to learn of his passing. Please know of my prayers for you and your family.
Jeanne Carr
February 23, 2015
Dear Carol, you are in my thoughts and prayers. The days and months ahead are difficult it takes time as you begin the year ahead, it was for me. Don was dedicated to The ministry as a chaplain and you two were a team. It was a privilege to know him.Dick and I were very happy that he became Chief of Air Force Chaplains.
February 16, 2015
Dear Carol and family: We have such wonderful and cherished memories of serving with Don and you. How blessed we were to have Don's leadership at the AF Chaplain School and throughout his time as Chief of the Chaplain Service. He was a mentor, friend, a consummate professional and an admired servant of all. God bless and keep you close, and know that you have been in our prayers. With love,
Bob and Carolyn Leeds
Steve and Sharon Torgerson
February 16, 2015
We love you Carol and Family. I will remember the many times we were able to be in your home and how blessed we felt to have you as members of our congregation at Kirtland. Chaplain Harlin was a great mentor and friend. I know we'll all be together again...younger, wiser, and with only excellent health. God bless you all.
Max and Sharon Chastain
February 15, 2015
Dearest Carol and family, What fond memories we have of Don during the years that you were members of the Kirtland AFB Chapel family. And our most precious memory is of our visit with you just a couple years ago in La Grange. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you close in his loving arms.
linda tucker
February 14, 2015
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Ralph Bronkema
February 14, 2015
Carol, I was much saddened today to learn of Don's passing- saddened for you and your family, rejoicing in knowing Don's introduction to the perfections and glory of the life to come. May God's rich promises be your strength and comfort today and in the coming days. Recalling our days together in Okinawa and your friendship is still a joy to me! - Ralph Bronkema (421 Eagle Drive,Satellite Beach, FL 32937, [email protected] / [321]773-2704)
Ron Duncan
February 14, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sue Haggerty
February 13, 2015
Carol, Tim & Beth and family:
This message comes with our deepest Sympathy to all of you. A wonderful man who walked the walk and was a inspiration to many has gone to be with other family members and friends. I'm so glad Carol and Don had time to visit the last time they were here in Pennsylvania. Something they always did was thought of family. I had wonderful pictures of Don and his dog who looked up to him always so lovingly. As I read through his Obituary and see all his awesome accomplishments through out his life I can only imagine how many lives he has touched. Our family will send a tribute to one of his suggested organizations. All our love to you with Hugs and prayers through this difficult time. Sue (Myers) Haggerty, Frank Ballina -Husband and mother Dorothy Myers
Vonnie Brydon
February 12, 2015
DON J HARLIN. D was for Delightful. O was for One of a kind. N was for Nurturing. J was for Jolly. H was for Honesty A was for Amazing. R was for Righteous. L was for Love of God and family. I was for Integrity and N was for Never will be forgotten. You were loved by many and will be missed so very much. I love you!!!!
Grady and Renata Cooper
February 12, 2015
Sorry to lose a long time Freind always enjoyed each other's company when we got togather Carol. And family you have out deepest sympathy
Dwight Braswell
February 12, 2015
It was my great joy to be Don & Carol's pastor at Bolling. They never missed a service and always shared their gifts and talents with us. Carol visited in our home when Barbara was sick and she helped with numerous ministries. Their genuine love for Christ was evident in all they did. Our warmest regards to Carol, loved ones and friends. Ch Harlin was a giant of a man for God and a most extraordinary Chief of Chaplains. He not only talked the talk, he walked the walk! To God be the glory!
February 12, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are extended to all of your family. I was privileged to serve in the USAF chaplaincy during Don's tenure as Chief. He modeled for us the high standards of excellence in the Chaplain corp together with a humble servant character. He was a wonderful blessing. Thank you. Chaplain, Col (retired) Susan and Ralph Guetersloh
Robert Jemerson
February 11, 2015
Great memories. Praying for your family.
John Lytle
February 11, 2015
Love and miss you uncle don...ill never forget all the great times andy and I had with you and aunt carol. You will truley be missed.
fernando ana kim
February 11, 2015
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Mr Harlin: thank you for your service helping the Korean people. My dad who is 86 yo was in the Korean Army for 23 years.
Your legacy is your family ...
Dear Tim and family: Although words can not take the pain away...
Psalm 119:50 “My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.”
Michael and Beth Fingado
February 11, 2015
We send our prayers and deepest condolences.
Maurice Hibard
February 11, 2015
Our thoughs and prayers are with you. I served with Don in Korea.
Doug Harlin, Jr.
February 11, 2015
Uncle Don you were a very special person and I always enjoyed every minute of our time together. You will certainly be missed. To Aunt Carol, Tim, and the rest of the family thoughts and prayers for all.
RIP Uncle Don, say hello to Mom for me :)
Elbra Wedgeworth
February 11, 2015
I am very sorry for your loss. My prayers are with the family.
Elbr Wedgeworth
Chief Government and Community Affairs Officer
Denerv Health
February 11, 2015
Cousin Donnie will always have a place in my heart and memories. Carol, my deepest sympathy goes to you. Don was so fortunate to have such a devoted and loving wife. Bless you.......love, Liz Frazier.....Aspen, Colorado
andy lytle
February 11, 2015
rip uncle don, i will always charish the memories i had with you and aunt carol growing up. love you my great uncle.
February 11, 2015
I remember how Don,would sing for hours to us kids at John and Dee house..Our legend is with the angles.Love You Tons.BethAnnMyers Patton
Don Cowell
February 11, 2015
Don was a very special man of God who truly represented the USAF Chaplaincy as the very best of the best. Don continued his legacy of faithful and dedicated service to God, family and community, long after his retirement from the AF. Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends who will miss him so much. Thank you Don! Chaplain Col (Retired) Don and Joann Cowell, USAF.
Alma Schaffer
February 11, 2015
Chaplain Harlin taught me to see the humble chaplain under the stars he wore on his shoulders. He blessed me with his friendship and ministry, along with his great sense of humor and lots of chats about our mutual love for Albuquerque.
February 11, 2015
Don and Carol blessed us and brought joy to ministry in the Air Force. We cherish our time together at the Chaplain School and thank God for allowing us to be among those who knew him. Carmen and I pray God's special grace and strength to Carol and family today.
Ben Perez (Cleveland, TN)
Dave Cottrill
February 10, 2015
Although I met Don on many occasions, my fondest memory of him is as Commandant of the Chaplain School. There he set a wonderful example of the chaplain as a gracious, caring pastor. May he rest in peace and may his family find consolation in the love of Christ.
Dennis Lovin
February 10, 2015
Thanks be to God for Chaplain Don Harlin. His passion for excellence in ministry, ability to inspire, teach and lead the USAF Chaplain Corps will have impact for generations to come.
How wonderfully God used him after his military career to bless people with disabilities and continue a legacy of selflessness and service to Christ.
Karin Lytle
February 10, 2015
Uncle Don, you inspired me to want to learn how to play the guitar and sing. You were an incredible musician. I marveled at how you could play flamenco and classical guitar by ear.you had a big part in my career choice of becoming a music therapist. I still have the guitar that you got for me when I started college.I am sure you are incredibly happy playing guitar now for the angels. Your laughter and sense of humor was contagious.It makes me smile to think about you and Dad laughing together again in heaven.I can just see him doing his impersonations and you laughing hysterically gasping for air. I always think of you fondly and love you forever.
Verona Highsmith
February 10, 2015
My thought and prayers are with the family through this sad time. My late husband, Darrell always had high regards for Chaplain Harlin and I think he probably volunteered to be on his welcome committee in Heaven. Blessings,
Thomas J Minor
February 10, 2015
It was my pleasure to serve as a chaplain under Chaplain Harlin's tenure as Chief of Chaplains. I also had the opportunity to meet members of the Harlin's family always very kind and gracious. Thank God for you and your families ministry and service to our country.
Chaplain, Lt Col, Thomas J. Minor, USAF Retired.
Lorraine Potter
February 10, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as this difficult time. Don was a great leader, mentor and friend. He leaves a wonderful legacy for all Air Force Chaplains. I was honored to have served with him and given incredible ministry and leadership opportunities. God bless, Lorraine Potter and Rocky Saunders
Ch Col Arnie Porter
February 10, 2015
Carol, From Don's earliest days until he was Chief, he was always outstanding. He was always exactly what a chaplain should be. And you were always the complete help mate.
Loraine Crenshaw
February 10, 2015
Please accept my deepest sympathies. Sincerely, Loraine Crenshaw (West Ga. Hospice)
Jo Ann Beckley
February 10, 2015
My prayers are with each of you.
When my husband, Chaplain Jim Beckley retired, Chaplain Harlin was part of the retirement presentation. My husband was most grateful that Chaplain Harlin took the time in his schedule to be there.
Jo Ann Beckley
Tom & Ann Curry
February 10, 2015
You blessed us all!
Showing 1 - 48 of 48 results
Make a Donation
in Donald Harlin's name
Memorial Events
for Donald Harlin
How to support Donald's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Donald Harlin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
