Gregory James Harrelson

Gregory James Harrelson, age 68 of Longview, TX, peacefully left his earthly home to go to his heavenly home on Friday, November 1, 2024, while at Longview Regional Hospital after a series of health battles. He was surrounded by his loving wife Linda, family and friends, as he was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior.

Greg was born in Shreveport, LA, on July 14,1956, to James and Lorraine (Rani) Harrelson.

His family moved to Longview, TX, in 1966, where Greg attended Pine Tree Schools until 7th grade. The family then moved to Dover, Delaware, where he was a part of the school bands. Greg graduated from Dover High School in June 1974 and then attended Texas A&M University (Gig ‘em) where he graduated in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He returned to Longview in 1987 to help his Dad in his refrigeration business after having lived in Orange, TX.

Greg had the privilege of serving in many work environments in Texas including but not limited to the following: Regional Facilities Manager at CBRE, Project Manager/Co Safety Coordinator at Smallwood & Company, Maintenance Supervisor at Meadow Pines Hospital, Director of Physical Plant at LeTourneau University, Maintenance Manager/Plant Engineer at Gibraltar Chemical Resources, Sales & Service Technician at Jay Elle Refrigeration (Dad’s Company), Maintenance Supervisor at E. I. DuPont de Nemours & Co Self Employed Businesses

In 1970, Greg gave his life to Christ and shortly after surrendered to music ministry. On a blind date in Jan 1988, Greg met the love of his life, Linda. They were married on November 23,1988, when he became a father to Brian and James.

Passionate love for music was seen in the way Greg used his God-given talents of playing the piano and singing to personally worship his Savior and lead others to worship at various churches around East Texas. Greg also enjoyed Community Theater and was cast in a variety of roles. A faithful member of New Beginnings Baptist Church, he served in a variety of ways including various committees, participating in mission and ministry projects, but his favorite role was leading Life Groups for over 30 years.

In 2021 Greg sustained a spinal injury leaving him unable to walk and bound to a wheelchair. Unable to walk physically, Greg never stopped walking with his Lord.

This was a difficult season for Greg and Linda, but the season was punctuated with perseverance, tears, and laughter as they learned to navigate many new challenges.

Greg will be remembered by his wife, Linda Walker Harrelson of almost 37 years, son Brian Quaid (Jeanna); grandchildren; Jacee Quaid, Laynee Watts and family, Justin Bowers and family; brother Rick Harrelson, half-brother Ron Harrelson, sister-in-law Debbi Harrelson (widow of Derek), and many other extended family on both sides, along with numerous friends from all walks of life.

Greg is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Derek Harrelson, and a son James Reece Harris.

He will forever be remembered for his kindness, knowledge, wisdom, and love. Greg’s heartbeat was helping others when given the opportunity. His memory will live on in the hearts and lives of his family and friends.

A special thank you to Harrelson/Holt Life Group, Ministry Staff at NBBC, Heart to Heart Hospice, ICU staff at Longview Regional Hospital as well as both our families, church family, and work families. We have been so overwhelmed and blessed with all the expressions of love & care.

A celebration of Greg’s life will be held at 11:00 at New Beginnings Baptist Church on Saturday, November 9th with Todd Kaunitz officiating. Visitation will be held at 10:00.

Because Greg had a heart for missions, in lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the mission fund at NBBC, Samaritan’s Purse, Longview Community Ministries or to a favorite charity.