John G. Harkins was born June 23, 1921, in Talking Rock, Georgia, to his parents John Lumpkin and Elbie Eller Harkins. During his ninety years of life, John served his country in the Army before and during all of World War II; retired from E.I. Dupont, he was a dedicated York Rite Shriner and Mason, having served as past master of Masonic Lodge #156 in 1977, and for more than forty years was a member of South Aiken Baptist Church. Being an avid outdoorsman, John enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling. Surviving John are his son, John Jr. Pam; a sister, Desma Eaves Barry; brothers, Bill Harkins Ida, Emmett Harkins Eleanor, and Franklin Harkins Janie; five grandchildren, Nicole, Tonya, Tabitha, Tiffany and Timmy; six great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews. Preceding John in death were his parents, his wife Althea, his son Richard, brothers, Ulmer and Grady and sisters, Vinia and Bessie. Over the past several years, the staff of Shadow Oaks Assisted Living and Regency Hospice, along with Glenda Calhoun, have provided excellent care and compassion for John. His Niece, Abby Mitchell, has been his caregiver—brightening his life beyond measure. The family will be forever grateful for the love and attention shown to John during his declining years of health. Funeral services will take place on Friday, January 27, 2012 at 11am at George Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 211 Park Ave. SW Aiken with Rev. Michael Dyar officiating. Pallbearers will be members of Masonic Lodge #156. Interment, with Masonic Rites will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday evening, 6-8pm and also at the home of John's nephew. Clyde Harkins, 2185 Pine Log Rd, Warrenville