George Joseph Harkins Jr.

George Joseph Harkins, Jr., of Glendale, Arizona passed away on July 20, 2024 at the age of 89 years. George was born on September 11, 1934 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of George J and Marie P (Cavanaugh) Harkins. He grew up in Philadelphia and attended La Salle High School and La Salle College where he participated in Cross-Country. He continued running all his life until a recent illness prevented him from doing so. He was a 1st Lieutenant in the Army and kept in touch with his Army buddies for the rest of his life. George moved to California and worked for Hughes Aircraft and since 1995, he has called Arizona home. George worked as an Investment Broker.

George is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Geri Ann (Wells) Harkins. As the oldest of 11 he is also survived by 6 brothers and sisters, Patsy Galvin, Rose Walsh, Joe Harkins, Emmett Harkins, Paul Harkins, and David Harkins. He was preceded in death by his sisters Mary Lou Henigen, Lorraine Coyne, Marianne “Pinky” Mebert, and his brother Robert Harkins. George has six children, Kathleen Harkins, Chris (Briana) Harkins, Jane (Greg) Dorn, Brendan (Courtney) Harkins, Steve Harkins, and Megan (Mike) Ure. Also his stepdaughter Kim (Ron) Marquis. He has 17 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

George went home to be with the Lord after a protracted illness that diminished his physical health as well as his cognitive abilities but he never struck out at others and was never abusive. As his wife, I consider myself blessed.

Although he was a businessman his ultimate goal in life was to glorify God and to share his faith with others. He did that through writings and telling others, what God had done in his life. He was not perfect but did his best to help others understand the salvation and forgiveness found in a relationship with Christ. It is written, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly nor stands in the path of sinners nor stands in the seat of the scornful, but his delight is in the law of the Lord and in his law, he meditates day and night.” (Psalm 1:1-2). George was blessed and a blessing.

To send expressions of sympathy to George‘s family, or upload a photograph, or to share a fond memory with the Harkins family please visit www.phoenixmemorialmortuary.com.