Dale Lloyd Harden

Dale Lloyd Harden,74, peacefully transitioned into his eternal home early Monday morning, October 29, 2025, at the East Georgia Regional Medical Center in Statesboro after spending the last year of his life bed-bound at Pine View Nursing Home in Sylvania. His vibrant spirit and the impact he had on those around him will forever be cherished.

Dale was a dedicated and hardworking individual who embraced various roles throughout his career. He participated in a school-offered trade-work project in Warm Springs, GA, and honed his skills as a painter for various trade-work projects. His time spent working in a cabinet shop in Wrens, paired with his role as a bagger at GA-EN Mining Co, showcased his diverse abilities. However, the most fulfilling opportunity for Dale was as a caregiver for his beloved mother, living at their home place in Stapleton. This deep bond reflected his loving nature and profound commitment to family.

A proud graduate of the School for the Deaf at Cave Spring, GA, Dale’s journey in life was marked by resilience and determination. Born deaf, he learned sign language and communicated prolifically, establishing a unique connection with those around him. Even though his mother could not sign, she and Dale found their own ways to communicate, exemplifying the strength of their relationship. His loving demeanor extended beyond his immediate family; he treasured his nieces and nephews, embracing them as if they were his own children. Their fond memories include trips to McDonald's, ball games, enjoyable outings to Omaha Springs to wade in the cool waters, and going to Willoughby’s to pick peas and butterbeans, after which he would dole out “the shelling pans” so they could enjoy each other while shelling the peas/butterbeans.

Dale had an innate ability to connect with others, never meeting a stranger and always making an effort to foster relationships. He was known for his considerate demeanor and independent spirit. His love extended to his neighbors as well, and despite the language barrier, he always found a way to connect with them, often writing his thoughts on a notepad to communicate.

Dale is survived by his siblings, Felton Harden (Mildred) and Elaine Wren; sister-in-law, Jan Harden; nieces and nephews, Stephanie Flagg, Tiffany Rapp (Mikey), Laney Farmer (Mac), and Sue Wren; as well as great nieces and nephews, Austin Flagg (Amber), Solomon Lane, Nicholas Roberts, Alexis Cameron, and Trinity Cameron. He also leaves behind other extended family and friends who were fortunate enough to share in his joy of living.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Leola Williams Harden and Lloyd Felton Harden; his brother, Ronnie Harden; his brother-in-law, Hugh Wren; and his niece, Sabrina Cameron.

His desire was to be interred next to his mother in the family plot will be honored with a graveside service at 2:00 PM Saturday afternoon, November 1, 2025, at Bethel Church in Gibson. Those who wish to honor Dale's life and pay their respects are invited to join in celebrating a life that was truly rich in love, kindness, and dedication to family.