Harold E Folkner, 78, passed away on October 17, 2026. Born on July 8, 1948, Harold will be remembered as a cherished presence in the lives of those who knew him—a devoted husband, father, and papaw whose steady courage and love for family shaped the home he helped build.
A graduate of Red Bank high school, Harold carried forward the values of commitment and perseverance that would define his life’s work and service.
Harold served in the United States Armed forces and later dedicated his career to protecting others with the Chattanooga Fire Department. After years of faithful service, he retired from the department, having most recently served at Station #19 in Hixson. His life reflected a quiet bravery—shown not in words, but in the responsibilities he accepted and the people he stood ready to help.
Harold married his high school sweetheart, Doris, and together they raised two daughters, Dana and Eugenia. He was a wonderful husband, dad, and papaw to his grandchildren, and those closest to him will remember how naturally his devotion expressed itself in the time he gave, the care he showed, and the pride he took in his family.
He is survived by his wife, Doris; his daughter, Dana Hill; daughter, Eugenia Furman (Ben); his grandsons, Haydon Hill, Logan Hill, and Seth Waterhouse; granddaughters, Hannah Furman, Abigail Furman, and Selah Waterhouse. He is also survived by his sisters, Kellye Cooper, Jennye Lawrence, and Gloria Saft; his brothers, Donnie and Pat Flanigan.
Harold was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed hunting and especially loved talking with others about fishing, but above all, his favorite way to spend his free time was simply being with his family—those moments that mattered most to him, and that will now be held most dearly by those who loved him.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 24th, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Chattanooga Funeral Home - North Chapel located at 5401 Hwy 153, Hixson, TN 37343. There will be a Celebration of Life service following visitation at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel. He will be laid to rest at Hamilton Memorial Gardens following the service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Forgotten Child Fund, 5637 TN-58, Harrison, TN 37341, which held a special place in his heart.
Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist - North Chapel, is honored to serve this family during this difficult time.
