Harry Francis Coleburn

Harry Francis Coleburn, 86, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2025, at the McLeod Hospice House in Florence, South Carolina. Born on August 29, 1938 to Colton Park Coleburn and Lilla Frances Long, in Berrien County, Georgia, Harry lived a life marked by dedication, service, and deep personal passions. After graduating high school, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy March 11, 1957. Assigned to aviation as a radar technician, Harry performed numerous reconnaissance missions across Europe until completing his service on March 9, 1961. In 1963 after a year of courtship, he wed Amanda Ann Hempel of Hahira, GA, a relationship that continued until his passing. June 9, 2025 would mark the 62nd year of marriage for Harry and Amanda. That same year marked the beginning of a remarkable professional journey with International Business Machines (IBM). Over the course of 47 years, Harry built a distinguished career supporting his customers. His unwavering commitment and tireless work ethic earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike until his retirement in 2010. Outside of work, Harry’s life was rich with interests that brought joy both to Harry and those around him. A lifelong enthusiast of racing, college football, and baseball, Harry shared these passions generously over the years. Yet it was his love for raising champion pug dogs that truly stood out. His dedication to the breed led to numerous honors and culminated in the proud achievement of showing at the Westminster Dog Show at Madison Square Garden in New York in 2019—a testament to his expertise and devotion. Harry and Amanda also found peace and fulfillment in tending to their gardens and flowers season after season. Tomatoes were a particular favorite, and they took great pride in nurturing each plant with care. A devout Christian throughout his life, Harry was an active member of Trinity Methodist Church in Darlington, South Carolina. He served faithfully in many capacities over the years and lent his voice to the church choir for much of that time. More than anything, Harry was a loving husband, father, and grandfather—beloved by all who knew him. His legacy lives on through cherished memories held by family and friends whose lives were enriched by Harry’s presence. Harry is survived by his wife Amanda of Darlington, SC, his son, Jonathan (Misty) of Greer SC, his granddaughters Chelsea of Greenville, SC, Madeline, Delaney, Mahalie and Vivianne of Greer, SC, siblings Sue Chancy-Davis (Jimmy) and James Coleburn (Pat) of Hahira, GA and many nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by the passing of his parents, Colton and Lilla, and his grandson, Alistair, of Darlington, SC. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. A visitation will be held on May 19, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Trinity Methodist Church, 126 Pearl Street, Darlington, SC, followed by a church service from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm. The graveside service will be held, following, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm at Florence National Cemetery, 803 E National Cemetery Road, Florence SC. In lieu of flowers, the Coleburn family asks that donations be made in Harry’s memory to the McLeod Hospice House in Florence, SC.

Harry Francis Coleburn

August 29, 1938 - May 11, 2025