In addition to his parents, Harold was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Geraldine “Gerry” Nofsinger, whom he married on April 7, 1951; son, Randolph Oliver Nofsinger; and brother, Eugene Nofsinger.
He is survived by his daughters, Nancy Lynn Karnes (Harry) of Roanoke, VA and Cynthia Anne Morton Saunchegraw (Mike) of St. Louis, MO; sons Harold Wesley Nofsinger (Patricia ) of Lincolnton, NC and Michael Nofsinger (Julia) of King, NC; grandchildren, Michelle Lindamood (Bobby), Catherine Bowman (Tal), Michael Nofsinger, Matthew Nofsinger and John Nofsinger, great-grandchildren; Taylor (Hannah) Lindamood, Andrew Lindamood, Alison Bowman and Talmage Bowman; sister Mary Ann Harrell (Greg); and brother, Ralph Gerald Nofsinger (Linda).
Harold’s commitment to family, faith, community and country was exemplary. He was an active member of the Masonic Lodge where he was a 32nd degree Master Mason and Past Master of Pleasants Masonic Lodge no 63, and a 50 year Veteran, from 1957 to 2023, where he forged lifelong bonds. As a Shriner, Harold’s dedication to helping improve the lives of countless children through his involvement with the Shriners Hospital for Children was unwavering. In addition to Masonic and Shriner affiliations, Harold was an avid member of the Martinsville Rotary Club from 1976-2023, and believed strongly in the power of the Rotary’s mission. His contributions to local and international Rotary projects had a lasting impact. Harold held the highest Paul Harris Fellow designation.
Perhaps Harold’s greatest love was being a lifelong learner and constantly challenging himself by continuing his education. He graduated from Jefferson High School in Roanoke, VA and went straight into the workforce, retiring from Dillard Paper Company (now Xpedx) after 40 years of successful sales in one of the biggest VA territories. After retiring, Harold returned to school to pursue his education, graduating from Patrick Henry Community College (with honors). He then attended Averett College and obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in History (Suma Cum Laude). Afterwards he attended University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) and obtained his Master’s Degree, graduating Cum Laude with a degree focused on history.
Harold’s love for America was evident in every facet of his life. He served in the Naval Reserve during the Korean Conflict as a radio operator on the USS Hemminger (DE-746). He also held an amateur radio license (HAM) K4WVU since 1960. He cherished the values and principles that this great nation stands for and proudly raised the American flag at his home every day.
Harold was a pillar of strength and wisdom to his family and friends throughout his long and fulfilling life. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Collinsville from 1975-2023, and served various positions throughout his membership.
Harold will be remembered not only for his numerous affiliations, memberships and educational achievements, but also for the kindness and compassion he showed throughout his life – even to strangers. He was a loving father, grandfather and great grand-father, providing guidance love and support to his family as they embarked on their own journeys in life.
A visitation will be held on November 9 at McKee Stone Funeral Home from 6:00-8:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at McKee-Stone Funeral Home on November 10, 2023 at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem VA
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29506 or online at donate.lovetotherescue.org.
