Richard Arthur Harkness

Richard A. Harkness, 93, a highly decorated Sergeant Major who proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on October 12, 2026. His life was defined by faith, honor, service, and love.

A man of humility, compassion, and unwavering character, Richard served his country for 30 years, including two tours of duty in Vietnam. The courage, discipline, loyalty, and selflessness that marked his military career remained the foundation of his life.

Quiet and unassuming, Richard never sought recognition for his many accomplishments, awards, or the countless ways he helped others. Though a man of few words, when asked, he would often share memorable stories that reflected his experiences, wisdom, and sense of humor. His generosity, encouragement, and steady presence touched countless lives, leaving those around him feeling secure, supported, and cared for.

Richard’s faith was central to his life. He served his church as a deacon, church treasurer, and coordinator of the Wednesday night family dinner. He also served for many years as a Boy Scout leader, mentoring young men and teaching by example the values of character, responsibility, and integrity.

Above all, Richard was a devoted family man. As the father of six children, he led by example, instilling the importance of faith, hard work, honesty, and keeping one’s word. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—the family of more than 60 people that grew from the love he shared with his beloved wife, Jeanette.

The bond Richard shared with his beloved wife, Jeanette, was a testament to a love and devotion that endured for more than seven decades. They shared 55 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2009, yet his love for her never faded. He continued to honor her memory throughout the remaining years of his life, a beautiful reflection of a love that even death could not diminish. His family finds comfort in knowing they are now reunited in the presence of their Lord and Savior.

Born in Jackson County, Michigan, Richard was the son of the late Forrest Harkness and Dorothy Bartig. In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Jeanette H. Harkness, he was preceded in death by his son, Richard W. Harkness.

He is survived by his children, Kathy (Duran) Lail, Pam Pritchard, Michael (Ina Lee) Harkness, Teresa (Bill) Young, and Cynda (Scott) Bollinger; 12 grandchildren and their spouses; 33 great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Richard's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Dudley Shoals Baptist Church, 1882 Dudley Shoals Road, Granite Falls, NC. Internment will follow in the Church Cemetery with full military honors rendered by the United States Marine Corps. The family will receive friends following the service.

Flowers are appreciated and accepted, or memorial donations may be made to the Dudley Shoals Baptist Church Youth Group.

Richard’s life was a quiet but lasting testimony to faithfulness, courage, and love. He served his country with distinction, devoted himself to his family, honored God, and generously offered his strength and kindness to others. The values he lived by and the love he shared will continue through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all whose lives he touched.

As his family and friends mourn his passing, they also give thanks for the gift of his life and the example he leaves behind. Richard was faithful to his country, his family, his beloved wife, and above all, his Lord and Savior. His earthly service is complete, but his legacy of love and devotion will endure.

Semper Fidelis — Always Faithful.

An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.mackiefh.com.

Mackie Funeral Service & Cremations of Granite Falls is serving the Harkness family.