Harold Haynes Gordon

Harold Haynes Gordon, 94, of Owensboro, passed away Thursday, June 19, 2025 under the care of Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky. He was born in Stanley, Kentucky to the late Harvey T. and Mary Mammy McKinley Gordon.He learned to work hard and developed a variety of skills on the farm. His father’s health and brother’s military service made it a necessity for him to do more than most boys his age. Harold was a pretty good mechanic by the age of 16. He and his brother eventually enjoyed working on cars and motorcycles together. His work included the oil fields, driving a coal truck, J.J. Newberry’s 5 & 10 Cent Store and working for L & N Railroad immediately following graduation from Daviess County High School in 1948.

In 1950, Mr. Gordon joined the U.S. Air Force, where he continued to use his mechanical skills and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. His duty stations were varied, but he spent a fair amount of time in Texas.

In 1955 he married and used his G.I. Bill to study engineering at the University of Houston. He worked in a variety of engineering or mechanical equipment related jobs while in college. Harold also owned a grocery store and bar business and a body shop for a few years.

In 1959 family life began with the birth of their child and the purchase of a home on the north side of Houston. In the 1960’s he worked for Magnolia Metal Co., J.F.A. Oil Co. (which included build and design on one of the first and largest carwashes in the Southwest) and Reed Roller Bit Company. In this era, he developed professionally by doing seminars, tax and business school and various training schools related to industry.

In 1969, he moved to Owensboro where briefly owned the “Little Brown Jug” before joining National Aluminum and continuing industrial studies. He simultaneously owned a car lot and opened Property Management Services, Inc. in 1972. After leaving National Aluminum in 1975, he purchased the Watkins Building. Harold became employed by the Ellis Estate and worked directly with Wannetta and J.C. Ellis, III for many years.

Harold was always learning- leadership courses, a course on heating and air, Dale Carnegie Speaking School and he earned his pilot’s license in 1979.

He became a Mason in 1962 and was a longtime member of Masonic Lodge #130. Harold joined the Moose Lodge and served in leadership for many years, culminating in his status as a “Pilgrim” and ultimately, his appointment as Deputy Supreme Governor in 1983. Harold was Past President of Jaycees in Texas, President of Owensboro Antique Auto Club, member of Owensboro Sales and Marketing Executives Club, Woodmen of the World, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Toastmasters International, Kentucky Aviation Association and Friendship Baptist Church.

In spite of the many things he accomplished, Harold made time to enjoy music – having started a band in Houston in 1959, along with Walter Lege’, Jesse Lege’, James Abshire and Billy Abshire. He also enjoyed the many airplanes, cars and boats he owned over the years. His appetite for learning and “doing” continues to serve as an inspiration.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Gordon was preceded in death by wives, Florine “Flo” Lege’ Gordon, Wannetta Payne Gordon and Shirley Judd Gordon; and a brother, Thomas Newton Gordon.

He is survived by his daughter, Carolyn Gordon Webb of Houston, Texas; a sister-in-law, Lillie Bugg Gordon of Owensboro; nephew, Joel Gordon (Donnell); great-nephews, Korey Myles (wife, Veronica & children, Asher & Sayler) and Tyler Gordon; a lifelong, loyal friend and recent soulmate who helped him enjoy life to the fullest, Mary Ann Miller.

The family would like to offer special thanks for support, care and friendship to the following: Carl and Wilma Vanover, Bill Ford, Danny and Bridget Stone and Ben Cottrell. Mr. Gordon admired and respected his long-time physician, Dr. Margaret Whitehouse. Her care is deeply appreciated. The family extends their gratitude to the great staff at Owensboro VA Clinic, Wellington Parc and Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. They would also like to recognize the Heartford House for amazing care that far exceeded their expectations.

The funeral service will be at 10:00 AM, Thursday, June 26 at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory where visitation will be held Wednesday from 5:00 until 7:00 PM and Thursday from 9:00 AM until the time of service. Wednesday evening will include ceremonies conducted by the Masonic Lodge at 6:30 PM and the Moose Lodge at 7:00 PM. The burial will be at Rosehill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans, VA Regional Office, Suite 390, 321 West Main Street, Rm 322, Louisville, KY 40202-6200 or the Heartford House C/O HPC of Western Kentucky, 3419 Wathen’s Crossing, Owensboro, KY 42301.

Messages and condolences for the family may be offered at www.glenncares.com.