Harold L. Pirkle, 75, of Tifton, GA, passed away on December 26, 2020. His college sweetheart and beloved wife of 50 years, Barbara (Bam) Pirkle, was with him when he died.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Loy Clay Pirkle and Mary Ann Bailey Goddard both of Atlanta, GA.
He is survived by his wife, two daughters and sons-in-law, Anna and Chris Silvestri, and Emily and Eric Toledo, all of Atlanta, GA; four grandchildren: Molly and Lila Silvestri and Sam and Anna Toledo; two brothers and one sister: Bill Pirkle (Ginny) of Seattle, WA; Gary Goddard (Debra) of Buford, GA; Tammy King, of Atlanta, GA; and caregiver and dear friend, Debra Dove of Tifton.
Harold earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Georgia State University where he was a brother of the Epsilon Omega chapter of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He put his degree to good use with his ability to make people laugh and his welcoming ear and thoughtful advice.
He had a long and enjoyable career in the turf grass business where he negotiated the sale of turf grass for golf courses and athletic fields all over the world. When asked of his profession, he often responded that he “sold grass” just to see the look on people’s faces. Harold had a lot of hobbies over the years, but his absolute favorite was fishing. He cherished a fishing trip which included competitions over bait, tackle and fish-catching strategies. He was always the (self-proclaimed) champion. He dedicated years of service in various roles to the Episcopal church and had an uncanny ability to memorize Shakespearean literature. He often recited sonnets with ease. He was warm and welcoming, fun and gracious, wise and patient. He was wonderful. He was Mr. Wonderful.
A private family service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at St. Anne's Episcopal Church in Tifton, GA. A virtual service will also be available via live stream at https://www.facebook.com/stannestifton.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association of Tifton, GA (www.alz.org) or St. Anne’s Episcopal Church of Tifton (www.stannestifton.com).