Harold H. McCluney, Sr.,

Harold Herschel McCluney, Sr. was born on July 4, 1929, in Gaffney, South Carolina, to the late David McCluney and the late Ruth Wilkins McCluney. From his earliest days, he carried a quiet strength, a steady sense of purpose, and a deep-rooted commitment to faith, family, and service.

He was educated in the Cherokee County Public Schools and graduated from Granard High School. Following graduation, he attended Benedict College for one year before answering the call of duty in the United States Army, where his lifelong sense of discipline and service to others was further shaped.

A devoted servant of God, Harold faithfully served as a Senior Deacon at Bethel Baptist Church for over 50 years. His life of worship was not confined to Sunday mornings—he was a teacher of the Word, a voice in the choir, and a steady presence in the nurturing and guidance of the church’s youth. He was also a member of the Thickety Mountain Baptist Congress of Christian Education, where he successfully completed all classes in Level One. His faith was not merely spoken, but lived through humility, consistency, and love.

Harold’s heart found its home in Margaret Elizabeth Jones of Union, South Carolina. The two were united in holy matrimony on December 22, 1960, and together they built a life rooted in devotion and enduring partnership. From this union came two children, Harold Jr. and Sabrena, who were raised in a home grounded in love, discipline, and faith.

A man of public service and quiet courage, Harold served as a Deputy Sheriff for 12 years. He also served his community as a Notary Public. After his time in law enforcement, he continued his life of service through the Cherokee County Disabilities and Special Needs Board and Peachtree Skilled Nursing Facility, where his compassion for others remained evident until his retirement, prompted by his wife’s health needs—an act that reflected his unwavering devotion as a husband. He also worked with Foster’s Funeral Home and J.W. Woodard Funeral Home, extending his service to families during their times of loss with dignity and care.

Harold was deeply committed to brotherhood and civic responsibility. He was a proud and dedicated member of Prince Hall Masonic Limestone Lodge #117 for 64 years, Tamin Temple #185 for 57 years, Cherokee Consistory #427 for 54 years, and Tamin Court Eastern Star for 52 years. His life reflected steadfast leadership, integrity, and commitment to uplifting his community, state, and country. He was also a lifelong and faithful member of the Cherokee County NAACP.

Throughout his lifetime of service, Harold was honored with numerous awards, including the Service to Mankind Award presented by Lambda Rho Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Outstanding Christian Service Award from his Bethel Baptist Church family—received twice. He was also recognized by Limestone Masonic Lodge #117 for Outstanding Leadership and Service. He attained the distinguished rank of Past Potentate and was a 32° and 33° Degree Mason, reflecting his lifelong pursuit of excellence, wisdom, and service.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Ruth McCluney; his grandparents and great-grandparents; his sister, Willie Mae Wilkins; and his son, Landrum Beard.

Harold’s legacy lives on through those who were blessed to know and love him. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 65 years, Margaret Elizabeth Jones McCluney of the home; his children, Harold H. McCluney, Jr. (Sonya) of Ellenwood, GA, and Sabrena Wilson (Charles) of Greer, SC; four grandchildren, Marcus O’Brien McCluney, who was reared in the home, Kyla McCluney, Zaria McCluney, and Harold H. McCluney III; and two great-grandchildren, Cali McCluney and Sianna McCluney.

He is also survived by four sisters-in-law, Gladys Talley, Lena Thompson (Union, SC), Elder Betty Abrams (East Lansing, Michigan), and Elder Sherry Mason (Rolesville, NC); and three brothers-in-law, Sylvester Talley, William Abrams, and Claude Mason. His presence will be deeply missed by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and church family who were touched by his wisdom, kindness, and enduring love.

Harold McCluney’s life was a testimony of faith lived out in action, love expressed through service, and strength grounded in humility. His legacy will continue to speak through every life he influenced.

He passed away Thursday, April 30, 2026, in his home.

Funeral Service with Military Rites will be held Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. in Bethel Baptist Church with Bishop Kirkland Smith. Interment will follow in White Plains Baptist Church Cemetery.

Masonic Rites will be held Friday, May 8, 2026 in The Gilmore Mortuary Chapel.

The Service will be live stream on The Bethel Baptist Church Facebook page. 

The family is receiving friends at the home.