Harold Ray Idol

Harold Ray Idol passed away peacefully on the morning of Nov. 26, 2024. He was surrounded by his wife, Sheila, and their family. A lone train whistle echoed overhead, signaling a fitting goodbye for a man who had dedicated his life to Norfolk Southern. Harold graced the world on June 17, 1940, born to the late John Basil and Ella Marie Campbell Idol in the small town of Washburn. When he was a teenager, his family settled in Blaine, where Harold graduated from Rutledge High School in 1958. Harold's heart found his true love in Sheila Catherine Davis Idol, whom he married on Oct. 5, 1960. After a blissful honeymoon in Pigeon Forge, they began their cherished family life, surrounded by loved ones in Blaine. Together, they were devoted members of Indian Ridge Baptist Church, and their family blossomed with the births of Angela, David, and Jennifer. Harold dedicated a decade of his life to Lay's Packing House before embarking on a new adventure with Southern Railway in 1969. His diligence and commitment earned him the title of Assistant Track Supervisor in 1973, leading to a transfer to Athens. In the years that followed, he ascended to the role of Track Supervisor until his well-earned retirement in 1995. His strong work ethic and leadership left a legacy of respect among cherished colleagues that still exists today. His spirit of service extended to Riceville Baptist Church, the Thomas Hamilton Masonic Lodge, and the Nocatula Civitan Club, where he actively volunteered for many years. One of his most treasured contributions was to the local, state and International Special Olympics. In the golden years of retirement, Harold and Sheila embarked on a tapestry of adventures, traveling by motorcycle, camping, train rides, and cruises - embracing life in all its wonders! They realized their dream by settling into the cabin he built along the Hiwassee River in Decatur. There, he became a cherished member of Decatur First Baptist Church and the Decatur Civitan Club. A source of great joy for him was sharing laughter and camaraderie on the golf course with the Maxie Davis Group. He participated in numerous Civitan International golf tournaments, including the prestigious Bay Hill course. In 2019, the couple's journey brought them back to Athens, where Harold reveled in mowing, bird-watching, and nurturing his vibrant flower garden. His heart overflowed with love for family, friends, music, laughter, and, of course, jokes! He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Sheila; their adored children, Angela and Pat Patterson, David and Casey Idol, and Jennifer and Erick Graham; grandchildren, Paige and Will Johnson, Rae and Ryan Sharp, Blake and Kayln Patterson, Maddux Graham, Erick Graham, Zeb Idol, and Zak and Paige Idol; and great-grandchildren, Serenity, Atlas, Levi, Briar, Jameson, Malachi and Merit, with two more great-grandchildren expected in February and July 2025. He is also survived by his sister, Betty Bull, along with five sisters-in-law, four brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family will receive friends on Friday, Nov. 29, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Decatur First Baptist Church in Decatur. A funeral service will follow with Lead Pastor Jordan Metzger officiating. Interment will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, in McMinn Memory Gardens with his grandsons serving as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Pastor Jamey Davis' Dominican Republic Mission Project, c/o Decatur First Baptist Church. Condolences may be sent at www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/harold-idol Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home of Athens is in charge of arrangements.