Bobbie M Harbin Jr.

Bobbie Max Harbin, Jr. passed away peacefully on February 18, 2023, at the age of 93 years old with his son and grandson by his side. Bob was born on February 18, 1930, in Milledgeville, GA, the only child to Bobbie Max Harbin, Sr. and Janie Louise Harbin. He grew up in Chattanooga, TN where he met Mary Jo. Howren, his high school sweetheart and bride for 64 years until her passing in 2014. In high school he was part of the boxing team, was a member of ROTC and voted best dancer in his class.
Bob served 4 years in the Air Force, obtained his Bachelor's degree from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and then attended The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary for his Masters of Divinity.
He served as Associate Pastor of Southside Baptist Church and was the Pastor of Ortega Baptist Church before moving into the field of chaplaincy. He was hired as the first Chaplain of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Jails and Prisons Division and filled this position for over 20 years. In 1990, he was recognized as Chaplain of the year for the state of Florida. He was passionate about inmate rehabilitation and helping those find the Lord and their way in the world. He also provided religious support for the Sheriff's Office Correctional Officers and employees.
Bob was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting turkey and deer or just spending time in the woods. He also enjoyed surf fishing at the beach in the summer.
He loved his Lord, his country and his family with his whole heart. He was one of the "good men" left.
Bob is predeceased by his wife Mary Jo. Harbin, survived by his son Joe Harbin, wife Susan; his daughter Janet Harbin Brafford, husband Ron; his three grandchildren Andrew, Tindell and Parker Grace; and his good friend Marilyn Benson.
Arrangements are being handled by Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Funeral Home at 4801 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207.
Visitation is Friday, February 24th from 5-7PM at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Funeral Home and the funeral service is on Saturday, February 25th at 11AM at Southside United Methodist Church located in the chapel at 3120 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32207.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to Taylor Residences, 904-636-0313 or Community Hospice & Palliative Care, 866-253-6681.