Harry Edward Mansfield

Harry Edward Mansfield, of Taylors, South Carolina, passed away at his home, surrounded by family, Friday, September 29, 2023. He was 102 years old. Born November 14, 1920, he was the son of the late Florence Mansfield. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, of 74 years, Doris B. Mansfield on September 17, 2023. He is survived by his daughter, Marie Carter (Ray) son, Ricky Mansfield (Susan), grandchildren, James Bennefield (Kacie), Laura Bennefield, Grace Durham (Randall), Lindsey Mansfield, Blake Mansfield (Miranda), great grandchildren, Landon Harris, Kailee Mcllhenney, Krysta Bennefield, Lainey Mansfield, Lucy Mansfield, Cyrus Mansfield, Samantha Durham and James Durham Ill, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Harry grew up in the Salvation Army Bruner Home with his older brother and sister. When he was old enough, he went to work at Piedmont Shirt Company alongside his mother and later went to work for Western Union delivering telegrams around Greenville.

In 1940, he joined the Army. He was in the 9th Infantry Division, 34th Field Artillery. He fought in 8 major campaigns. On D-Day, he stormed Utah Beach, and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded the Soldier's Medal for saving three (3) fellow soldiers from drowning. He was honorably discharged in 1945. In 2020, he was made a World War II Honoree in the National Registry of World War II Veterans

After returning home, Harry took day classes at Draughons Business College. There he met his wife, Doris. At night he worked at the bowling lanes in downtown, Greenville, setting duck pins for leagues. It was here he was offered a job as a repairman with Veeder Root Company. He advanced to the position of salesman, covering 13 states. In 1960, he moved his family back to Greenville and started his own business, selling, manufacturing and repairing counting and production controls for the textile industry. He finally retired from the company when he was 98 years old.

In addition to working and traveling for his business, Harry was approached in the 1970's regarding a community sports program. He was instrumental in organizing the Sevier Youth Association. He and his wife served as directors as well as coaches. He also served as commissioner for Piedmont Park Fire Department.

On his 100th birthday, the Greenville County Council declared it Harry E Mansfield Day. Due to Covid, a birthday celebration couldn't take place. His family did the next best thing and honored him with a surprise drive by parade. The community, along with friends and family decorated their vehicles and golf carts and joined in the festivities creating an hour long parade.

Memorials may be made in his memory to the Salvation Army on Poinsett Street, Greenville, SC.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeywoodlawn.com for the Mansfield family.