Edgar Finley (Ned) Harbin, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, died unexpectedly on August 28, 2023 in Forest City, NC shortly after celebrating his 92nd birthday. Born August 19, 1931 in Clarksburg, WV to Edgar Finley Harbin Sr. and Louise Wiseman Crim Harbin, Ned was raised in Winston-Salem, NC but resided in Forest City for the past 61 years. A life-long learner with diverse interests, Ned completed his bachelor’s degree at UNC-CH, graduate work at UNC and NC State, and associate degrees from Isothermal Community College, including a final one earned in music and classical guitar at age 90. The “Air Force Tiger” was a lieutenant colonel who retired after 37 years as an active duty and reserve military intelligence officer. He was awarded the AF Meritorious Service and Commendation Medals for an outstanding career including his organization and support of our nation’s debriefing of Vietnam Prisoners of War. He continued to serve his nation for 30 years at the United States Postal Service after working in the private sector for American Greetings, Trinity School, and Rock Wool Insulating Company. Ned was passionately involved in Boy Scouting and served in many leadership roles. As Scoutmaster, he integrated the first troop in the county, building on his earlier work with the Human Relations Council. He also served on the staff of numerous Wood Badge courses and was honored with the Silver Beaver and the Vigil Honor in the Order of the Arrow. Later in life he developed a keen interest in his Scottish heritage and was a founding member of the Scottish American Military Society Post 1775. He was a long-time member of St. Francis Episcopal Church in Rutherfordton, served in leadership roles there and in the Diocese of Western North Carolina, and was also active in many other community organizations including CarePartners Rehab Hospital (Asheville), the American Legion, and the Rutherford County Arts Council.  He will also be remembered for the love he had for God, family, country, animals, and music as well as the joy he received from helping others. 

He is survived by his wife of almost 66 years, Sally Leonard Harbin of Forest City; his son and daughter-in-law, J. Derek Harbin and Clifford King Harbin; his daughter and son-in-law, Leisa and Gary Leonard; five grandchildren: Miles, Mitchell, Hannah (and her husband Devrim), Clare, and Sarah; and two great-grandchildren: Joshua and William.

A Requiem Eucharist will be offered at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Rutherfordton, NC on November 18 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to BSA Piedmont Council, the Humane Society, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or your local church. A reception will follow the service in the St. Francis Parish House.