James Wilson Harburn

born on August 8, 1936, in Flint, Michigan, to James Nelson Harburn and Bernice Wilson

Harburn. His father, a tool and die maker for Fisher Body, instilled in him a strong work ethic and

an appreciation for skilled craftsmanship.

Mr. Harburn proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years and continued

his service in the Naval Reserves. As a young adult, he spent many years in the Flint area

working as a social worker.

He possessed a lifelong love of art and was an award-winning artist in his youth, earning a

gallery showing in his twenties. He later pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in

Social Studies from Fort Wayne Bible College and a Master of Arts from the University of

Michigan.

He devoted his professional career to the Cobb County Water System, where he served as a

Process Control Analyst until his retirement.

A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, Mr. Harburn lived out his faith through active church

involvement. He was a longtime member of Roswell Street Baptist Church until 2000. After

relocating from Marietta to Dallas, Georgia, he became a faithful member of First Baptist Church

of Woodstock, where he remained for the rest of his life.

He was married to his beloved wife, Lynn Harburn, for 34 years until her passing in 2024. He is

survived by his three stepdaughters and sons-in-law: Laurie and Douglas Wicks of North

Augusta, South Carolina; Sheri and Kevin Osborn of Oriental, North Carolina; and Julia and Kim

Cellmer of Jamestown, North Dakota; his sister, Barbara James of Flint, Michigan; a niece,

Cindy Agosta of Pheonix Arizona, six grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren, all of

whom were a source of great joy to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Marilyn Plainer; and two nieces.

Mr. Harburn will be remembered for his steadfast faith, quiet strength, and lifelong commitment

to service — both to his country and to his God

A funeral service will be held at 2 PM Tuesday February 10, 2026 at Carmichael Funeral Home in Marietta with Pastor Kevin Osborn officiating.

Following service the burial will be at Kennesaw Memorial Park