Harold Dean Harwell

Harold Dean Harwell, 84, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2024. 

He was born in Gaston County, North Carolina on October 30, 1940 to the late Jennings and Ollie Harwell. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Samuel Lee Harwell and his brother, Larry Joseph Harwell. 

Harold was a veteran of the US Army and proudly retired as Major and acting chief of Gaston County Police after many years of dedicated service to his community. During his career, he received several awards, honors, and distinctions, including those from Florida State University, UNC-Chapel Hill, Northwestern University, the University of Georgia, and the University of Virginia, as well as graduating from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA.

Harold was a faithful member of Friendship Baptist Church and he enjoyed spending time fishing, camping, and making many happy memories with his family. Most of all he was a devoted husband and loving father. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Betty Stewart Harwell; son, Rick Harwell (Carol); brother, Robert Harwell (Diane); grandchildren, Mackenzie Ellison, Gavin Harwell (Becca), Graeme Harwell, Kathryn Harwell, and Preston Harwell; and his great-grandson, Jack Jennings Ellison. 

The family will receive friends from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm on Friday November 8, 2024 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. A graveside will follow at 2:00 pm at Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery 5008 S. New Hope Road, Belmont, NC 28012 with Pastor Jan Deans officiating. 

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com