Harold Richard Delaney

Harold was a quiet, laid-back man whose gentle spirit and steady presence made him deeply loved by those who knew him. A true cowboy at heart, he found his greatest joy in the simple, honest rhythms of country life. Horses were his passion, and few things made him happier than spending time caring for them. His beloved horse, Simba, and his miniature donkey, Tikki, held a special place in his heart.

Harold worked as a skilled farrier, a trade that reflected both his patience and his deep respect for animals. A farrier’s work requires strength, precision, and a special bond with the horses they serve. Harold took pride in carefully trimming and shoeing horses’ hooves, helping them remain healthy, balanced, and strong. To him, it was more than a job—it was a craft and a calling rooted in trust between man and horse.

Family was the centerpoint of Harold’s life. He shared 45 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Virginia Delaney, building a life together grounded in loyalty, quiet devotion, and enduring love. His family knew him as a steady protector, a patient listener, and a man whose actions always spoke louder than words.

Harold honorably served his country in the United States Navy, proudly serving aboard the USS Forrestal, the United States’ first completed supercarrier. During his service, he was nominated to serve on the Captain’s Gig, the boat used to transport the ship’s captain while at sea—an honor that reflected the trust placed in him and the respect he earned from his fellow sailors.

Following his military service, Harold dedicated 20 years of hard work to CSX Railroad before retiring. Never one to stay idle, he later continued serving his community as a Security Officer with VyStar Banking.

Outside of work, Harold embraced the things that made life meaningful to him. He loved going to rodeos, listening to country music, and taking pride in his 1968 Harley Davidson Softail. Whether caring for his animals, riding his bike, or simply enjoying time with those he loved, Harold lived life in a way that was genuine and deeply rooted in the values he held dear.

Harold is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Delaney; his sister, Rita Jean Brown; his brothers, Joseph R. Delaney (Kathy Delaney), Gary V. Delaney (Bernadette Delaney), Bobby Delaney, Phillip Delaney (Debbie Delaney), and David Delaney (Doug Delaney); and his sister, Mary Filiatreau (Bill Filiatreau).

He is also survived by his stepsons, Michael L. Pettross (Samantha Pettross), Ronnie L. Pettross (Laura Pettross), and Joseph E. Pettross; his grandchildren, Nicholas Pettross, Johnathan Pettross, Corbin Pettross, Sidney Pettross, Jeanna Pettross, and Cody Jackson; and his great-grandchildren, William Lynn, Abigail Lynn, Allan Lynn, Thomas Jackson, and Lennox Jackson.

Harold was preceded in death by his father, Ramie L. Delaney; his mother, Rita S. Delaney; his brother-in-law, Wendell Brown; and his sister-in-law, Mary Lou Delaney.

Harold will be remembered for his quiet strength, his love for his family, his dedication to his work, and his deep connection to the animals and country life he cherished. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.