He was born in Charlotte, North Carolina on October 2, 1924 to Archie and Rita Sikes. He and Florence moved to Jacksonville, Florida in 1946 to pursue studies in radio and music. He had a love of music and a wonderful bass voice that he used by serving in the choirs of the churches he faithfully attended. Even while living in an assisted living facility he continued to use his voice to provide musical entertainment for the residents.
Harley served in the US Navy during WWII in the Pacific Theatre and continued his patriotism by serving in the Naval Reserves for 25+ years. His continued support of the military reflected the pride he held for serving his country. He also retired from the Prudential Insurance Company.
He was a long time member of the First Baptist Church of Orange Park where he had many friends that became extended family members.
Harley was preceded in death by his wife, Florence Sykes, and two sons, Harold and Kevin Sykes. He is survived by his son, Dale (Glenda) of Acworth, Georgia and daughter-in-law, Pat Sykes-Amos of Umatilla, Florida. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Paul, Glenn and Michelle Sykes; two step-grandchildren, Tyne and Edward Amos; five great-grandsons, Dillon, Logan, Troy, William and Kevin Sykes. He will also be fondly remembered by his loving friend and caregiver, Natalie Wood.
Visitation will be held from 10:00am to 11:00am on Monday, November 5 at First Baptist Church of Orange Park, 1140 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073. The funeral service will follow at 11:00am at the church. We will reconvene for interment at 2:00pm on Monday, November 5 at Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills Memory Gardens, 850 St. Johns Bluff Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32225. In lieu of flowers the family has requested any donations be made to First Baptist Church of Orange Park.
HARDAGE-GIDDENS CHAPEL HILLS, 850 Saint Johns Bluff Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32225, is serving the family.
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