Harold Dan Himes

Harold Daniel Himes, a devoted family man, dedicated professional, and cherished member of his community, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Okeana, Ohio. Born on February 27, 1935, the son of Carl and Thelma (nee Clark) Himes, in Jackson County, Kentucky, Harold’s life was marked by service, love, and commitment in countless forms, leaving an enduring legacy for all who knew him.

A 1953 graduate of Brookville High School, Harold embarked on a path defined by hard work and integrity. His career as a sales engineer with Kansas City Southern/Southern Pacific Railroad exemplified his technical expertise and dedication. Later, he extended his passion for connecting people and places through his role as a realtor with West Shell Realty, where he earned respect and admiration.

Harold’s proudest personal accomplishment was marrying his loving wife, Edna Johnson Gillespie on September 17, 1999, at The Heartland in West Harrison, Indiana. Their union was a cornerstone of his life, filled with warmth and mutual devotion. Together, they built a loving family that grew to include their children: Kyle (Penny) Himes, Kenny Himes, Gina (Jeff) Bischoff, John Vogt, Pastor Thomas (Donna) Gillespie, and Teresa Gillespie. Harold was a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren, a cherished great-grandfather of 21 great-grandchildren, and a great great grandfather of one, whose lives he touched deeply.

Harold’s brothers, James Himes, Charles Himes, and Robert (Sandra) Himes, and sister, Joyce Peppers, also remain part of his living family circle, standing alongside Edna Himes and their children in honoring his memory. He is lovingly remembered by all for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support.

His journey also included honorable service in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict, where he exemplified the courage and commitment that characterized his entire life.

A man of many interests, Harold found fellowship and purpose as a member of the West Fork Masonic Lodge in Cincinnati, Ohio, the Valley of Cincinnati Scottish Rite, Syrian Shriners, the Transportation Unit, and First Baptist Church of Bright. These affiliations reflected his dedication to brotherhood, charity, and community service.

Family, faith, and service intertwined in Harold’s life, a testament to values he held dear. A visitation will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Jackman Hensley Funeral Home located at 215 East Broadway Street, Harrison, Ohio 45030.  An additional viewing will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, until time of funeral services at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Tom Gillespie officiating, at New Vision Church located at 220 Sunset Avenue, Harrison, Ohio 45030. Friends and family are invited to gather there to celebrate a life well lived and to offer their final respects.  Burial will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery, Brookville, Indiana with military honors provided by the United States Army and Harrison Honor Guard.

Harold’s parents, Carl and Thelma (nee Clark) Himes, along with his brother Woodrow Himes, preceded him in death, now watching over the family from above.

Though his passing marks the end of his earthly journey, Harold Dan Himes’s spirit lives on vibrantly in the hearts of all who loved him. His legacy is one of devotion—to his family, his Country, and his community—and his memory will continue to inspire and comfort those fortunate enough to have known him.

In honor of Harold’s life, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105 and/or the Shriner's Hospital for Children, One Children's Plaza, 2 West, Dayton, Ohio 45404, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others. His departure leaves a profound void but also a reservoir of memories filled with love, laughter, and compassion that will endure through generations.