JD Harlin
JD Harlin, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024, in Silo, Oklahoma, at the age of 91. Born on September 18, 1933, in Brown, Oklahoma, JD's life was a testament to his loving, faith-filled, and generous spirit.
JD's early years were spent in the close-knit community of Brown, where he attended and graduated from Cobb Schools in Bryan County. His thirst for knowledge led him to further his education at Southeastern State College in Durant, Oklahoma. JD's work ethic was evident from a young age, having worked at the Ice House in Durant and Green Spray Grocery Store. His service in the United States Navy showcased his dedication to his country, and upon returning to civilian life, he embarked on a career in life insurance before finding his true calling in entrepreneurship. JD's passion for community and service was further demonstrated when he purchased and operated a neighborhood grocery store for 19 years, becoming a beloved figure to many.
On April 11, 1953, JD married Mary Joyce Black in Brown, Oklahoma, and together they built a life filled with love and devotion until her passing on July 22, 2008. He found love again and married Sue Peoples Hopkins on February 21, 2009, in Silo, Oklahoma. Their union was blessed with companionship and mutual support until his passing.
In 1978, JD began a successful career in automotive sales at Buddy Spencer Ford in Durant and was involved in various dealerships over the years. His entrepreneurial spirit thrived as he retired from a used auto sales business that he operated with his sons, Steve and Stuart, in Durant.
JD's commitment to his faith was unwavering. He served as a deacon at Silo Baptist Church and, in his later years, although inactive, remained a devoted student of the Bible. He loved to teach men's Bible study, share the gospel with others, and served as a Gideon, among other areas of Christian service throughout his life.
Known affectionately as the "Honey Man," JD loved to give out jars of locally produced honey to friends and family. His interests extended to fishing, attending Cobb School reunions, and most of all, being around his family, who were the cornerstone of his life.
JD's legacy is carried on by his loving spouse, Sue Harlin of Silo, Oklahoma; his sons, Steve Harlin and his wife Sherry of Durant, Oklahoma, and Stuart Harlin of Durant, Oklahoma; his stepdaughters, Sonya Davis of Silo, Oklahoma, Tammie Harris and her husband Tommie of Bonham, Texas, and Paula Williamson and her husband Tom of Sherwood, Arkansas; his sisters, Georgeanna Black of Midlothian, Texas, Kathryn Melson of Houston, Texas, and Betty Bowen of Silo, Oklahoma; his sister-in-law, Patsy Black of Forney, Texas; and his sisters-in-law, Billie Robinson and her husband Donald and Betty Proctor of Silo, Oklahoma. JD's memory will also be cherished by his 8 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces.
JD was preceded in death by his parents, George Washington Harlin, Jr. and Pauline (Harrison) Harlin; his first wife, Joyce Harlin; his sister, Carol Jackson; his in-laws Arvel and Lura Peoples, brothers-in-law, Joe Purkins, Ray Jackson, Wayne Black, Al Melson, A.L. Bowen, Ray Black, Gene Black, Larry Proctor, Eldon Jones; his sisters-in-law, Nell Jones, and Irene Black; as well as his step-grandchild, Baby Tony.
Family and friends will gather at his Family Hour on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home. His funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Silo Baptist Church with Dr. Ray Earley officiating with the assistance of Brother Scott Hamilton. J.D. will be laid to rest in Highland Cemetery following his funeral service. Full military honors will be presented by the Chickasaw Nation Honor Guard at the cemetery.
Those serving as pallbearers are Jeremy Harlin, Bryant Turnage, Blake Harlin, Alan Melson, Dennis Bowen, Quentin McLarry, Smitty Nabors, and David Hill. The Silo Baptist Church Men’s Sunday School Class will serve as honorary pallbearers. JD’s service will be live-streamed and can be viewed by following this link: www.silobaptistchurch.com/live-stream/.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Silo Baptist Church Building Fund by following this link: www.silobaptistchurch.com/giving/.
Services are under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home, 121 North 5th Street, Durant, Oklahoma 74701. www.holmescoffeymurray.com