Millard Harold Harbin

Millard Harold Harbin, a beloved member of the Bell County community, passed away on August 30, 2024, at the age of 86 on his 44th wedding anniversary, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 12, 1937, in Calvin, KY, to the late Millard Cephus and Sylvia Davis Harbin.

Harold was honored to serve the people of Bell County, KY, as their Sheriff for nine years; a role in which he took immense pride. Beyond his contributions in law enforcement, he also owned several local businesses that became staples in the community. His ventures included a Scottie's Restaurant franchisee, Peace’s/Harbin's Drive-In, B and H Grocery, Harbin's Shoe Store, and the Penthouse Restaurant at the Wilderness Trail Motel.

Harold was a distinguished member of the Freemasons, attaining the rank of 32nd Degree Mason and member of the Scottish Rite. He was a past Master Mason of the Bell County Masonic Lodge #691. He was a member of the Oleika Shriners Temple, where he contributed over 48 years to the Bell County Shriners. Additionally, he was honored to be commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Harold is remembered by many for his generous spirit. He truly had a heart for others; making sure that anyone he encountered in need never went hungry. He was a father and grandfather figure to many and his compassion and care forged lasting relationships and created a strong sense of family and community among those who knew him.

When Harold did have free time, one of his greatest pleasures was fishing on the Cumberland River with his beloved uncle Billy Joe "B.J." He also enjoyed sharing his love for his Lord and Savior through song as a member of the Gospel Sounds Quartet. 

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Millard Cephus Harbin and Sylvia Davis Harbin; special uncle, Billy Joe Harbin; and special brother-in-law, Wayne Cornelius.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 44 years, Lena Harbin; daughters, Lisa Harbin-Harris (Jeff), Lana Harbin-Dugger (Ernie), Vikki Johnson, and Sheila Wheatley (Eric); son, Danny Johnson (Lisa); grandchildren, Cheyenne Kindle (Alesha), Kasee Kindle, Caleb Johnson (Kayla), Macy Chambers, Katelynn Huckaby (Trevor), Hunter Wheatley, Peyton Wheatley, and Grayson Wheatley; great-grandchildren, Bralyn Kindle (Lexi), Caden Kindle (fiancé, Taylor), Maddie Kate Johnson, Isaiah Chambers, and Lillie Kaye Johnson; one great-great-granddaughter, Oaklynn Reign Kindle; sister, Jauana Hoskins; and brother, Carl "Dink" Harbin (Jean); as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

The family of Harold Harbin will receive friends on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY. Funeral services will immediately follow at 5:00 p.m. with Rev. Mark Hunter and Rev. David Rice presiding. Music will be provided by Denise Trosper and Sabrina Bingham. At the conclusion of the funeral service, family and friends will follow in procession to Green Hills Memorial Gardens, Middlesboro KY, where gravesides services will be held. 

Pallbearers will be Caleb Johnson, Hunter Wheatley, Peyton Wheatley, Grayson Wheatley, Caden Kindle, Bralyn Kindle, Cheyenne Kindle, and Trevor Huckaby.

Honorary pallbearers will be Eric Wheatley, Ray Lawson, Uncle Roy Harbin, former deputies, state troopers, and all other law enforcement officers during his time of service, medical staff, Chuck Green, Jeff Harris, Ernie Dugger, a host of nieces and nephews and special friend, Bill Green. 

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Millard Harold Harbin are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.