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Harold Hembree Obituary

Harold Hembree, 76, son of the founder of the legendary Harold’s Barbecue, died Sunday at his home in Covington. Mr. Hembree served as co-owner and operator of the barbecue restaurant on McDonough Boulevard until about six months ago, when he could no longer work because of cancer, said his stepson, Ken Cannon. News obituary

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Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution from Sep. 10, 2008 to Sep. 15, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Harold Hembree

Not sure what to say?





Sharon

September 3, 2009

I have lost both my parents to cancer. My prays are with your family during these stressful times. Like me I know you long for the day with god will bring about an end to all suffering and pain, including death. Rev 21:4

Sharon

August 13, 2009

I'm very sorry for your loss. I recently endured a tragic loss of my own. What helped me was God's word, The Bible. Ecclesiastes 3: 1,4 tells us it's ok to weep. Grief big or small is expected and it helps your body to release much unneeded stress and anxiety for your loss is great. God does have a plan for us because of his love for us. It's not our fault that our first parents sinned and thus brought death to us (Romans 5:12). God has given us our now reigning king Christ Jesus who will give out that mighty and wonderful call found at John 5: 28,29. Take comfort in knowing that death is a form of sleep and Jesus knows how to wake Harold up from it and its sooner than you think. For us the living, it seems like a long time; but for Harold it will seem like just a good nights sleep.
Harold is peaceful, well and just sleep. Thanks to our Lord and his son.

Carolyn Dempsey

August 9, 2009

He will be greatly missed for his delicious bbq and crackling cornbread. Our prayers are with the family.

Bill & Linda McElhannon

July 29, 2009

I offer my sympathy to the Hembree family. It was over 50 years ago when my dad took mom and me to Harold's on Friday nights to eat some wonderful BBQ. We really enjoyed that. Since then I have raised a family and Harold's BBQ has been one of our family enjoyments.

Jim Hulon

July 14, 2009

We will all miss Mr. Harold. I grew up in Cabbage Town and eating at Harold's. My dad (Tom Hulon) was a produce salesman in the area and he started me on BBQ at Harold's in early 50's and I never quit. He will be missed greatly. One good thing is he can still be seen on The Food Network show "The best BBQ places" Saw it 2 weeks ago again.

Patsy Medley

July 11, 2009

I lived on McDonough Bvd from pre teen to adulthood and really considered it a treat to go to Harold's BBQ. My sympathy for the family and friends.

Patricia Moran

July 10, 2009

You will be missed and your family is in our prayers!

Brenda Scott

June 29, 2009

My sincerest sympathy to all in the Hembree family.

Ted Holley

May 26, 2009

I have always been very proud of my long time relationship with Harold's Bar-B-Que because of two important events. First, it was one of my first jobs as a teenager and second, being a part of the family (cousin). Harold was always completely dedicated to the business but most importantly dedicated to his family. I have missed seeing him at the register in the last six months but I know that he has now joined his family in heaven and is suffering no more. My sincere condolences to the Hembree family. May God continue to bless you and meet your need in comforting your heart in the loss of a mighty good man. Blessings to you all.

Jodie Cannon

May 7, 2009

Paw Paw,

I still miss you so much!

Jodie

April 26, 2009

Used to eat at Harold's when I worked for Georgia Power Company ~ best BBQ in Atlanta Georgia!!
~Bill Lambert, Blue Ridge, GA

Pat and Ken Green

April 25, 2009

Thank you Mr. Harold for many years and countless memories of good food and friendly neighborhood atmosphere. You will be missed.

Lisa Brown

March 22, 2009

I know that this is a difficult time, but may the comfort found at Philippians 4:6,7 which tells us, "do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God, and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus."
Going to the hearer of prayer during this sad occasion will bring you much comfort.

Friend

March 7, 2009

While I never made it to Harold's BBQ, it truly sounds like an Atlanta landmark. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. You can find comfort in Rev. 21:3,4, where it promises us hope for the future in paradise.

SHANNON WARSHAW

February 12, 2009

YOUARECOOL

ronnie daniel

February 4, 2009

an atlanta legend

GAYLE TUMLIN

January 5, 2009

I can remember back in the 1950's when my Daddy ( Louis Tumlin) would take me with him to Harolds BBQ and help me up on the stool at the counter and I'd have yea while waiting on out "to go order"...My family has many great memories of Harolds BBQ and I just know that it'll remain for many more years. I have had the honor of taking my now grown children and even my 1st grandson to eat at Harolds to share my memories.
Those that have left us here on earth are now the angels that keep watch on their loved ones -- we miss Harold's wonderful smile but the memories are well written in my heart. I had the pleasure of takijng my Daddy BBQ sandwiches and stew with crackling cornbread before he went to Heaven in June 2003 and am thankful that I just took my Mother at the age of 83 before Christmas 2008 -- she loved it! To the Hembrees, THANK ALL OF YOU for the wonderful & famous "Harolds BBQ" and I know it'll be here as long as Harold would want it to be.
Love to all,
Gayle Tumlin & Family SharpsburgGa.

Nina Prothro

December 20, 2008

My family (Dick,Mike, Nina and Pam, and Betty Power) grew up with Harold. My brother and Harold were great friends. Dick died in 2005. We have had some great memories with Harold. He will be greatly missed.

Nina Power Prothro

Beverly Palmer

November 14, 2008

My apologies for being late writing to y'all. My family loved Harold's food and I grew up eating BBQ, Stew and that wonderful cracklin' corn bread. I knew the Hembree boys at RHS and find it hard to think that Harold has left us. It was a tradition for Roosevelt High students to go to Harold's and even though many of us are now grandparents, we still talk about the great food and atmosphere. Thankfully, some things never change because when we get back to GA, we have a hankering for some Harold's BBQ. In the summer of 1967, my Daddy (Red Roberts, from the City of Tampa, Water Dept) stopped by Harold's, ordered and filled up a huge thermos of Stew, bought BBQ Sandwiches and brought them on the plane to meet us in Denver, Colorado. My family and I anticipated taking him to a Colorado Steak restaurant on his first night visiting us in Ft. Collins, CO, but instead, all of us sat at a picnic table and chowed down on the best BBQ and Stew made in the US of A. Daddy's treat and those great memories of Harolds will linger on. Please don't change a thing. I only hope that Harold and his remaining family, knew/know how much you all have meant to those of lucky enough to have grown up during the 50's until now. May God continue to bless each of you as you adjust to Harold's passing. Blessings, always.

Jeri Fendler

October 26, 2008

As we lose these icons ... we lose a part of our culture that cannot be replaced.
I have so many fond memories of Harold's from my childhood. My parents, Helen & Oscar Mills, were concessionaires at Lakewood Park, and so Harold's was a frequent gathering place. I recall so many sweet people - my Uncle Carl & Aunt Lottie Mills, Frances & Rich Paul, Helen & Clarence Nelms (who also had considerable barbequeing skills). My Mother's sister, Fran Cates and her husband, "Doc"... and all our trips to Harold's. About a year ago, Emery (Fran's son) & I felt nostalgic and went out to Harold's. While gorging on that great pork plate, I told him of bringing Erich (my oldest) when he was about 18 mths old - so that would have been '75 - and how Hugh sat him on the counter, and stood there and shredded pork and hand fed him. Or 19 years later, when I brought Mother, during her last years of struggling with Parkinson's. I hoped something about Harold's would trigger a memory. It didn't, but I never will forget Hugh's kindness. How she took the time to come sit with us, talk with us, and how much she remembered! An amazing woman! Harold was, from all I ever saw or heard, a fitting tribute to his parents. Regrettably, I never made the time really to know him, but, his devotion to the family business certainly was obvious. Harold's BarBQ seems to personify Family Business. Sometimes seemed half the people working there were somehow related. And, they made the customers feel we also were family. I'm sure that was as much a part of their long lasting success as the great pork, (never frozen!) and just the best stew ever! I do hope the place continues.. just as it has been... so that future generations will have their own fond memories.

I got this email --
"Is there BarBQ in Heaven?"
"How can it be Heaven if there isn't?"

STEPHEN B. CAMPBELL JR.

October 12, 2008

I WAS BORN, RAISED AND EDUCATED IN THE CITY OF ATLANTA. MY DAD, STEVE SR. AND LATE DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF THERE, FIRST TOOK THE FAMILY TO HAROLDS BAR-B-QUE RESTURANT BACK IN 1947. EVEN THOUGH I HAVE SINCE MOVE AWAY I STILL CONTINUE TO FREQUENT "HAROLD'S"EVERYTIME I VIST ATLANTA. HAROLD'S STEW AND QUE IS AND ALWAYS HAS BEEN UNEQUALED.
IT IS MY WISH, ALONG WITH ALL THAT EVER DINED THERE, THAT THE TRADITION WILL LIVE ON IN HAROLDS DEAR MEMORY. GOD BLESS THE FAMILY AND HOLD THEM IN HIS HEART.

Duval Sewer

September 29, 2008

After the death of his close friend Lazarus, “Jesus gave way to tears.” (John 11:35)
Sometimes the grief experience by Christians in connection with death has been intense, so we would like to extend our sympathy and condolences.

Rachel Styles

September 21, 2008

The many years I worked for the Braves going to Harold's for lunch was always the highlight of our day.Anytime I had a chance to be downtown or going south around noon I just had to go by there to get my BBQ fix. No matter if it had been six weeks or six months Harold always remembered me. He would say where have you been. We have missed you. We will certainly miss him and his friendly smile. May God comfort you in your great loss.

Rachel Styles

Jackie Lewis

September 21, 2008

I was born in 1935 on Hill Street about 3 blocks from Harold's Barbecue. I don't exactly remember when my grandparents, who owned Huff's Drug Store on McDonough Blvd. started taking me there for a meal once in a while. Times were hard back then. Later on my mother, Charlotte, took us over more regularly with my great aunts, Jewel and Pearl Huff who lived on Jonesboro Road in the Heights. We were blessed to know the whole family as they came along. I married a Funeral Director in Hapeville and we still send out as often as we can for Stew 'N Cue by one of our longtime employees, Jeff Colquitt. We knew, and had services for Don. Mama Hembree has seen a lot of hard times and our blessings and prayers are with her and her family. May God sustain and bless you in the coming days.

Jackie (Mrs. Aubrey) Lawrence Lewis

Patricia Kown

September 18, 2008

So many people in Atlanta will miss Harold. He was a wonderful person that always made you feel welcomed. I've seen him for more than 28 years, once a week. People at Fort McPherson will miss him, as we always go there once a week for the best barbeque and stew in the world. My deepest sympathy to his family.

Don Smith

September 17, 2008

The Claude Smith family including Don, Donnell, Dwight, Shelby and Claudette want to offer our blessing to Harold's family. Our father, Claude, worked next door to Harold's Barbeque at Redmond Auto Parts. All of us grew up loving the great brunswick stew and pork sandwiches and still do. I remember eating my first brunswick stew that wasn't from Harold's and I thought it would be as good, but as we all have learned, there is none better. Whenever some of us who have moved away, the first stop on our way back to Atlanta would always be Harold's. In fact, Harold's catered my daughter's wedding in June. May the great tradition of quality and good food that Harold's father and mother passed down continue for generations to come.

Brittany

September 17, 2008

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please draw close to God by means of prayer during your time of bereavement. May He give you comfort and strength.

Brad Parker

September 17, 2008

"OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY." I WENT TO SCHOOL WITH BILLY. YOU COULD TELL THAT HE WAS VERY PROUD OF & LOVED HIS GRANDMA'S BBQ PLACE. SORRY FOR YOUR UNCLE'S PASSING. BEST STEW IN THE WORLD!!

Dan S.S.

September 17, 2008

I have known the Hembree Family for many years now. Harold Jr. will be greatly missed. He was the leader of the Hembree Family. My Prayers are with the Family. I have talked and listen to Harold's Nephew, Billy Branyon for the last few years. And now, I know he will become a "GREAT LEADER at HAROLD'S BBQ!"
God Bless all of ya'll!!!

Beverly Glover Bailey

September 16, 2008

I have been eating at Harold's most of my life and will always remember Harold, Don and Lee as they were always there working. I am so sorry for the loss of Harold, Jr. I will always remeber him at the cash reg. as you paid your food bill. My Mother always loved their Ribs and I loved the Stew with the Crackling Cornbeard. God Bless the Hembree Family.

Tammy Way

September 16, 2008

To the family of Harold Hembree,

My mother always love Harold BBQ sandwich and always told me how my grandfather always ate Harold BBQ. I am very sorry to hear about Mr. Harold passing. You and your family are in our prayers. God bless you.

Tammy Way and Family
Collette Harris and family

Sandra Golden

September 16, 2008

My condolences to the family. Thank you for continuing the legacy. Harold's was my first introduction to Brunswick stew and cracklin' cornbread after moving here from Illinois over 25 years ago. What a wonderful experience.

TIFFANIE

September 16, 2008

HAROLD WILL BE MISSED BY EVERYONE. THE BBQ STILL HAS GREAT OWNERS AND OPERATORS BILLY HAS DONE A GREAT JOB IN STEPPING UP AND STILL PROVIDING THE GREAT BBQ WE ALL LOVE TO EAT. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY.

Gena McBroom

September 16, 2008

How we can every forget good Ole' Harold's Barbecue. I felt like an adopted child just because my Granddaddy cut the meat for the sandwiches, roast the hams, then we'd go after closing to mop the floors. Shoot, I thought Granddaddy was part owner for the longest.>wink< He was working there from the time I was in 1st grade all the way up to 1971.

May God rest his hands on the wonderful family of Harold's Barbeque. You know there was a time that one of my uncles was cutting meat/sandwiches for "FreshAir" back in '75, the same time my granddaddy was still cutting for "Harold's" and there was no comparison then as there is now. The memories and all the time we were growing up is a huge chapter in my book.

Joseph P. Spain IV

September 15, 2008

I've been raised on your Bar-B-Q, earliest memory 1975, you and your establishment have been like family I have to see at least 1 time a month..you will truly be missed..

Ted and Karol Neville

September 15, 2008

Always a special treat when we eat at Harold's BBQ restaurant. The food is always so good and no one makes better crackling cornbread. A sliced on the outside sandwich can't be beat.

May the Lord be with the family during this time of loss.

Cliff & Tina Peters

September 14, 2008

Sunday, Gary, derek & family: We love you and are so sorry for your loss we know with Jesus he is full of joy and peace and we know as you mourn the pain doesnt go away right away but with HOPE in Jesus JOY is sure to follow. If you need anything please call us. We Love You all.

RONNIE PUCKETT

September 14, 2008

HAZEL & I WENT TO ROOSEVELT WITH HAROLD & DON, AND JUST ABOUT EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT
WE ALL MET AT HARLOD'S.
WE'VE PLAYED GOLF AND JUST ENJOYED LIFE TOGEATHER.
OUR HEARTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT
TO HIS FAMILY.
REST IN PEACE OLD FRIEND.

Raymond Hall

September 14, 2008

In 1947 my Uncle took me to lunch at Harold's. I became a regular until I retired in 1992. I have fond memories of Harold at the cash register and Frances waiting on our table. My prayers and thoughts are with Frances and the rest of the family.

Jerry & Charlene Langley

September 14, 2008

I can recall eating at Harold's on McDonough Blvd as far back as the 50's. The Cracklin' Cornbread & Stew with a BBQ Sandwich was truly 'heaven on earth' .... My prayers and condolonces to all the Hembree Family.

Jerry & Charlene Langley
Jacksonville, FL

Ivy Faber

September 13, 2008

So sorry for the loss of your loved one. May you find comfort in knowing that one day soon God will put an end to all sickness, pain, suffering and even death.
Respectfully,

Rocky Wade

September 12, 2008

Cracklin' Cornbread, Stew, Warm Que and a Great glass of Sweet Tea....Harold brought heaven to earth...may his great gifts move on to his next home.....bless you, kind man, bless you....

ANNETTE (Annie) GILLENWATER

September 12, 2008

I HAVE EATEN THERE SO MANY TIMES AND LOVED IT AND THOUGHT SO MUCH OF THE WHOLE FAMILY AND I WANT TO EXPRESS OUR SYMPATHY TO ALL THE FAMILY-ANNETTE GILLENWATER- JONESBORO, GA.

Buck Good

September 12, 2008

My Prayers are with your Family. Your BBQ and Stew was THE BEST! The "Cracklin Cornbread" just set it off. There is nothing like it in S.E.GA. My best to all of you.

Jackson L

September 12, 2008

I did not know Mr. Hembree but I am sorry for your loss. I no longer live in Atlanta but have been a fan of Harolds BBQ for a long time. I hope you stay open and that you do not change the BBQ and Brunswick Stew as I try to come by every time I am back in town.

brenda crabbe

September 12, 2008

I regret your loss. Your restaurant is a thread in the lives of many folks who lived in that area. The name alone was a part of my childhood.

Sincerely,
A Grant Park Neighbor

KATHY WEBB

September 12, 2008

MY BROTHER DAVID HAS WORKED FOR HAROLD'S MOST OF HIS WORKING LIFE I KNOW THE PASSING OF HAROLD IS LIKING A FAMILY MEMBER DIEING TO HIM
MY FAMILY ARE VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOST
KATHY AND JACK WEBB

Bob Rodgers

September 12, 2008

Dear Hembree family and friends. I pray that God will give you comfort and peace. My memories of the Hembree family go back a long way to Ideal Drive Inn on Lakewood Ave. God Bless all of you .

Scott Diamond

September 12, 2008

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. My brother passed last year, but he & I had many of lunches at the restaurant. My business is only about a mile from there, so I have eaten there a lot over the years. I remember as a child going with my brother & father. I was surprised when Harold could no longer work, but more surprised that he is gone. My only thought is he is in a better place and is no longer having to fight. Again, my deepest sympathy to you & your family

Sonia Martin

September 12, 2008

My deepest sympothy to Billy and the rest of the Family. I didn't know Harold on a personal level but I have been in the BBQ on several occasions with Angela and Harold was there. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Thank you for your many years of hard work and dedication to your customers. It is truly the best. I know Billy and his family will carry on this family business though the presence of Harold will be greatly missed. God Bless all of you.

Terry & Dawn Wortham

September 12, 2008

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. He had the best barbeque you could get anywhere. When I worked in the area of the originial restaurant that's where we always ate lunch. Loved the atomsphere. He truly will be missed. God Bless You All.

Madru Brandin

September 12, 2008

I have really enjoyed eating at Harold's since my daughter introduced it to me several years ago and will continue to visit whenever I am visiting in Atlanta. I will keep your family in my prayers.

Tiny Wright

September 11, 2008

Eulogy

So many Thanks for your prayers, kindness and flowers shown to our family.
" You know our hearts are heavy and our lives are now changed. We come together today to celebrate the homecoming of Harold Hembree Jr. He truly will be missed. Harold got his start as a young teenager working with his mom and dad who had just opened a small barbecue restaurant. Since he was the oldest of the three boys and one girl. After school, weekends and holdidays he was expected if not demanded to be there. He worked there until he went into the army and when he got out guess where he went back to work? yep mom and dads restaurant. After all, he was Harold jr. and it was Harolds barbecue. After working together for many years, Harold and Francis were married, She was the love of his life. They worked together daily for so many years as we know Life is Hard and so many times Unfair, those of us that Haven't experienced this Haven't Lived long enough. About twenty years ago, Harold asked me to start bringing firewood to the barbecue and let me tell you keeping a big restaurant supplied with dry firewood was a big demand on me and my family. Most people burn a Cord of wood per winter, but Harold's burned a Cord per week. Wow. During my weekly visits to the barbecue I got to see Haorld in his daily routine. He was very Opinionated and spoke his mind..no Sugar-coating-necessary. So even if you didn't agree-- you knew where he stood because he was sure to tell you. Harold was always at the register checking people out quickly with the money and carrying on conversations at the same time. He loved the Law Enforcement guys And always gave them a huge discount, If he even charged them at all. This building and the Entire parking lot could not hold all the people that he showed this courteousy to. He truly was a Kind and Loving man. Harold always wanted a Big family-- were the words I heard last night while talking to all his friends, Well when he married Francis over thirty years ago thats just what he got. Four more sons, three daughters, two son in laws and many grandchildren to follow. And I do emphazise the word Grand...As we all know the birth of a child is indeed.....Grand...In closing, let me remind you all to talk about your loved ones-Speak often- tell their stories-Their traits-Both good and bad. It keeps their memories alive within our hearts and helps us to hang on to our love for them...We are all leaning alot today and we appreciate you all coming to help prop us up. Thank You Tiny Wright--Cabbage Town--Son in Law

Dave and Mary Gibbs

September 11, 2008

You will be missed, rest in peace.

Walter Thompson

September 11, 2008

We enjoyed helping Harold Sr. and Jr. and the family with financial and banking matters over the years. You have our sympathy. Walt Thompson, son of Buford Thompson, SunTrust Bank (formerly Southside Atlanta Bank)

Hal Griffin

September 11, 2008

I have been going to Harold's since the late 70's. I moved out of state in 1993. However my wife and I have always made a point of stopping by each time we visit family in Atlanta. The Hembree’s have been in business since 1947 (I believe). They still make the best BBQ, and Brunswick stew I have ever had! It is one of the true family businesses left in Atlanta. I suppose, the Good LORD had a hankering for some great BBQ. My heart goes out to the entire family & staff at Harold’s!

Sheila Meador

September 11, 2008

I grew up in the neighborhood back in the 60's and ate at Harold's often. In the 90's when we were planning a high school reunion, we ate there to reminisce about the barbeque and the good old days! Harold will be missed by so many folks! God bless the family!

"Hambone" Al Hammock

September 11, 2008

I worked at American Freight 28 years...and ate at your place almost daily.

May you rest in the arms of our Savior. Condolences to the family.

Ted Bolton

September 11, 2008

I have been going to Harold's sense my years at Fulton HS in Lakewood Hgts. 1956. I moved from the area many years ago, but still made it by for lunch as oftened as possible. Always tried to speak with Harold and have bragged about his BQ all my life. He will be missed by many of his friends. Family is in my prayers. Ted

Claudia Gough

September 11, 2008

So saddened to learn of Harold's death. My husband and Harold were boyhood friends trying to stay out of trouble as teenagers. We always loved going to Harolds to eat BBQ, it was a family affair. He will be sorely missed. The Tom Gough Family

Mike McBroom

September 11, 2008

I knew Lee and his famiily long before I ever ate at Harold's since they lived in my neighborhood. I began eating there in 1982 when I had a job near there. It is still the best BBQ in Atlanta. I was there recently and noticed he wasn't there, and spoke to Lee, but never knew Harold was sick. My deepest sympathies to the entire family, and may he rest in peace

Yvonne (Suggs) Mahaffey

September 11, 2008

My family lived in the area and we all have fond memories from the 50's to now of the most wonderful barbeque in the world and just a great place to be! I am deeply saddened to hear of Harold's passing. Our Sympathy goes out to the Hembree family.

Jeff Carroll

September 11, 2008

As an Atlanta native, Harolds has the best brunswick stew and cornbread around as well as BBQ.Thanks Harold for starting this great ATL institution.You will be truly missed.My prayers are with your family at this time.

HILL,OBIE W.& OBIE M. POWELL

September 11, 2008

WE STARTED EATING AT HAROLD'S BEFORE 1949,NOT SURE WHEN.IT WAS ALLWAYS GREAT,WE WILL MISS IT.

Carol

September 11, 2008

To Lee and the rest of the Hembree family I send my sympathy. Harold's has always had a special place in my heart and Harold will be missed.

Marcia Cantrell Barth

September 11, 2008

Harold's Barbecue has long been an Atlanta tradition and treasure. We native Atlantans love to take visitors and the uninformed for the best barbecue in town. My Dad knew Mr. Hembree and had heard he was ill. It is fitting that the flags are flying at half mast today. May God bless his friends and family in their grief - we greive with you. Thanks for wonderful food and the memories.

Dave S.

September 11, 2008

Thanks from all of the GM Lakewood guys for providing "supper" for us for all those years. Prayers are with all of the family.

Laura Berry

September 11, 2008

I remember working at Harold's when they opened the Kennesaw restaurant. I always loved going to work as the Hembree family made it an enjoyable place to come to. They had amazing food and are all amazing people. He will be greatly missed. R.I.P.

Ron Smoak

September 11, 2008

Over 20 years ago I came to Atlanta and was taken to lunch at Harolds BBQ. Since then I have been countless times. Not seeing Harold Hembree there now just breaks my heart. A good man who's work made so many of us happy over the years by serving great BBQ and providing the BEST BBQ environment known to man. I love the mounted bass over the door that has turned a deep chocolate brown over the years from the smoke. My heartfelt sympathies go out to the Hembree family.

Paris Hayes

September 11, 2008

May you be at peace with the Lord for eternity.

God Bless,
Paris Hayes and baby Delonde

September 11, 2008

We have so many fond memories of Harold's BBQ from the 40's and 50's as children growing up in Atlanta. Nothing better than going into the original McDonough Blvd. location, especially on a cold day, and ordering Brunswick Stew, Crackling Corn Bread, a Pork Sandwich and a cold coke. No, the hospitality and warmth of Harold's topped even that. Mr. Hembree was a real gentleman. We always told him on our visits back to Atlanta "Not a thing has changed - phone booth still the same and great food and service" and we would all have a good laugh. May he have eternal peace with our Lord. Our prayers are with his family.

Lynda and Sam

Bobby Valdez

September 11, 2008

i lived in Atlanta for 25 years and ate at Harolds a million times,i will truly miss Mr Hembree and i hope the BBQ lives on

Ellyn Reichert

September 11, 2008

My prayers go out to the Hembree family. God bless and comfort you in this time of loss.

Tom Corish

September 11, 2008

I have eaten at Harold's since 1967 with government & business associates, friends, and family. Over the years, I've met most of the Hembree extended family whether they were cooking the meals, waiting the tables, or operating the cash register. Under Harold, the food and service were carried out with the same great taste and service of his mother and father before him. He will be missed and we wish Billy and the family continued success while we mourn with you over your loss.

Bill Ransom

September 11, 2008

My prayers and thoughts go out to all of the Hembree family. Harold's has been my choice for years and Harold was a fantastic person to see along with the BBQ. I will miss him.

Jim Standridge

September 11, 2008

My father started taking us to Harold's when I was just a little boy. I grew up eating the barbecue but my favorites was and is the Brunswick stew and cornbread. Mr. Hembree never knew my name but when I came into the restaurant he greeted me like we were longtime friends. He will be missed.

Jake Eby

September 11, 2008

Like many, I've loved this man's restaurant and the food and hospitality that were always present.

You know the place was a reflection of its owner when you visit there and see City of Atlanta and Fulton County police, Federal Judges, Federal Marshals, Fulton county judges and prosecutors there, along with truckers and construction workers. And all got treated great, ate well, and left thinking of when they could come back again.

Jerry Waller

September 11, 2008

My condolences to the Hembree family. Harold's Barbecue is simply the best BBQ in the world. I have enjoyed eating it my whole life and I hope the family will continue on by maintaining the business and the great food that Mr. Hembree and his father started years ago. God Bless

Jocko Davison

September 11, 2008

In 1983, I walked out of Atlanta Fed and took a left hand turn and didn't stop until I hit, Harold's. Been going ever since. The smell of BBQ, was the toughest thing to endure during my stay.

Jacquie Scott

September 11, 2008

Harold's IS the BEST BBQ. Period. Sliced pork sandwiches are supposed to be on toasted bread not a soft hamburger bun. Nobody equals their Brunswick Stew. Harold Hembree, Jr. carried on the family business and I hope his descendents continue this enterprise. It bears repeating. Harold's IS the BEST BBQ. Period.

Lori BRADLEY

September 11, 2008

My Father, Tom Gough and Harold grew up together and I have such fond memories of my Dad taking us to Harold's for BBQ. They were great pals and my Dad would talk about Harold's Mom and how she always had an open house for the kids in the neighnorhood. When my Father passed away in March of 2003, Harold was at his service, even though his health was failing. Now they are together again. My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time of sorrow.

Matthew Mooney

September 11, 2008

Harold, you will be missed. Some of my favorite memories over the last fifteen years have been grabbing a group from the office, loading up the car, and trying to beat the rush to Harold's for a great BBQ lunch. Any time we hired someone new in the office, first day tradition was to make the pilgrimage to Harold’s for lunch. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. You left a fantastic legacy!

Robin Richardson

September 11, 2008

I really enjoyed eating at Harolds BBQ
My prayers go out to the family my
you continue to carry on.

Doug Parson

September 11, 2008

A unique man who ran a great business. You will be missed.

Mary & John Beavers

September 11, 2008

John and I have enjoyed eating at Harold's in Morrow for 15 years or more. We got to know Lee and Bennie and their family through the years. Although we never met Harold, we wanted to express our sympathy to all of the family and celebrate Harold and the long family history of Harold's Barbeque. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Brian Moore

September 11, 2008

May God look over your family in your time of need. Harold brought a joy to this world through his BBQ. I always loved the stew and corn bread. Nothing else like it in the Atlanta and the World!

RIC COLE

September 11, 2008

I HAVE LIVED IN METRO ATL EVER SINCE '65 AND THINK HIGHLY OF MR. HEMBREE.

R.I.P. W/ GOD

Juanita Mikell

September 11, 2008

Mr. Harold you will truly be missed. May God hold you in His memory and bless your family left behind. May you all take comfort from God's word the Bible. Psalms 83:18

Billy & Angela Branyon

September 11, 2008

Uncle Harold will be missed greatly. He has been the rock behind our family business. I know he, Uncle Don, and our grandparents will be watching over us as we try to do as good a job as they did in keeping Harold's Barbecue an Atlanta tradition.
Thank you all for your kind words, thoughts and prayers.

David Westmoreland

September 11, 2008

I am truly sorry for your loss. It is a loss for all Native Atlantans as well. Mr. Hembree operated an oasis in a desert of change. I have been a customer for well over 30 yrs. There was nothing better than a bowl of stew after a long day at the Lakewood Fairgrounds. I will always remember those times.

Jan Moss

September 11, 2008

Wow - we will miss him.

Charles & Deborah Sullivan

September 11, 2008

My Family and I were blessed and many others by the good taste of Harold's BBQ and I'm sure the legacy will live on as it has done for years.
We pray that the Lord bring you comfort, healing and peace while coping with your loss.

Don Keith

September 11, 2008

Growing up in the Lakewood area, I enjoyed Harolds for years. Since moving away, I can't find good BBQ without going back to Harolds. May God bless and keep you all during your time of grief.

Dick Haining

September 11, 2008

We'll miss you Harold! Deepest sympathies for Frances and the family.

Elaine Griffin

September 11, 2008

My family sends condolences to the Hembree family. I remember, as a little girl my mother and father taking me to eat at Harolds. My fondest memories are the BBQ and cornbread but mostly the people. May you rest in peace. You were the best.

Richard and Lesia Chandler

September 11, 2008

Jordon - Your grandfather was loved by many. Our condolences are with you and the family.

Billy King

September 11, 2008

My Dad first took me to Harold's when I was about 7 or 8. I have continued the tradition, taking my wife, 10 year son and 6 year old son to Harold's regularly since our children were born. Through the years, I have sampled BBQ throughout the southeast. I have enjoyed much of it but Harold's has always been home. The best BBQ and Brunswick Stew in the world. God Bless and Keep Mr. Hembree and his family.

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