Jefferson "Felton" Harden

Dr. Jefferson "Felton" Harden, 89, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, at Wills Memorial Hospital in Washington, Georgia, with his beloved wife by his side. Born on June 22, 1936, Felton lived a life rooted deeply in faith, service, and family, exemplifying a servant’s heart throughout his lifetime.

Felton grew up in the Stapleton area and left high school in the tenth grade to help support his family before eventually graduating from Wrens High School. His dedication to education and faith led him to attend Asbury College in Kentucky, followed by seminary studies at Emory University, and then obtaining his doctorate from McCormick Theological Seminary. During a spring break trip in March 1958, he met the love of his life at a skating rink in Washington, Georgia. After a brief and joyful courtship, Felton and Mildred Bufford were united in marriage in December 1958—a union that would remain steadfast for 68 years throughout his life.

Two weeks after their wedding, Felton accepted his first pastoral appointment overseeing four churches in Wadley, embarking on a lifelong mission of service to Christ and His people. Over the years, he faithfully ministered in South Georgia, South Florida—where he served not only as a chaplain but also as a therapist—and ultimately within the North Georgia United Methodist Conference until his retirement. Retirement did not diminish his calling; Felton continued to serve as pastor for two part-time churches in south Georgia, tirelessly proclaiming Jesus and fulfilling the Great Commission until his final days.

A patriot at heart, Felton served six years in the National Guard, embodying the same spirit of dedication and duty he showed in all aspects of his life.

Those who knew Felton remember him as a loving and devoted husband, father, "Uncle Bubba," and "Poppie." He was down-to-earth, humble, and deeply committed to his faith and family, giving every ounce of his being to both. A natural storyteller, he delighted in sharing his many adventures and life lessons as a man of God, always attentive to detail, and ever ready to lend a hand. Aside from his ministry, Felton was known as "the clock maker," passionately collecting and restoring old clocks to their former glory and crafting several himself. He found joy in gardening and spending time outdoors, embracing the beauty of creation.

Felton is survived by his loving wife, Mildred Bufford Harden; daughters Stephanie H. Flagg and Tiffany H. Rapp (and her husband Mike); grandson Austin Flagg (and wife Amber); sister Elaine H. Wren; nieces Laney Wren, Sue Wren, and Mandy Harden; along with a multitude of extended family members, associates, and friends who cherished him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Ashley Flagg; his parents, Leola Virginia Williams Harden and Lloyd Felton Harden; and his brothers Ronnie Harden and Dale Harden.

A visitation will be held from 3:00PM -- 5:00PM Saturday afternoon, April 25, 2026, at James Funeral Home. To celebrate his life, a memorial service will be held at 2:00PM, Sunday afternoon, April 26, 2026, at Bethel Church with the Rev. Mark Hopkins of First Methodist church of Thomson officiating.

The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to two organizaitons near and dear to his heart, the American Cancer Society (website….American Cancer Society; Give In Honor & Memorial tab, “In Memory” of Dr. Felton Harden) and the United Cerebal Palsy of Georgia (by mail: UCP of GA, 3300 Northeast Expressway, Bldg 9, Atlanta GA 30341: or by phone: (770) 676-2000, ext 225) or by clicking on the links below.

Jefferson "Felton" Harden’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, selfless service, and boundless love. He fulfilled his earthly journey with grace and devotion, now resting in the eternal peace of Christ’s embrace. He will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.