Harold Ernest Young

Harold Ernest Young, 82, of Ooltewah, Tennessee, passed away surrounded by family and friends on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in Cleveland, Tennessee. Born January 30, 1943, in Stewart County, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Rev. Z. R. Young and Velma L. Ballard Young. A devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and proud great-grandfather, Harold was a man of quiet strength and unwavering dedication to his family.

A hardworking man with a strong work ethic, Harold built a successful career as a skilled welder and pipefitter. After working for the same company for a number of years, he and his brother Kenneth started a company together, SESCO. They traveled across the U.S. working in various food/beverage plants designing and installing stainless processing equipment. Whether on a job site or working in his own garage, his mechanical mind and problem-solving abilities were unmatched. Affectionately known as a “jack of all trades,” Harold could fix just about anything.

Despite being a man of few words, Harold’s actions spoke volumes. He was known for his generosity—if you needed help, he’d be the first to offer a hand, even if it meant giving you the shirt off his back. His honesty and integrity were guiding principles in his life, shaping not only his own path but also those who looked up to him. He was a father figure to more than just his children, offering wisdom, guidance and support to numerous ones in his path through the years.

Harold’s passions extended beyond his work. He was a motorcycle enthusiast, whether riding or admiring his Harley, it brought him pleasure and a sense of freedom. At home, he took great pride in his meticulously maintained yard, known by neighbors as one of the best-kept in the neighborhood. Yard work was more than a task for him—it was a reflection of his dedication to hard work and attention to detail.

Above all, family was the cornerstone of Harold’s life. He and his beloved late wife, Betty, shared a strong and loving partnership, built on mutual support and dedication. Together, they enjoyed attending their grandchildren’s countless concerts, sporting events, and special milestones, taking immense pride in their achievements. The memories they created together are a testament to the love and devotion he had for his family.

Harold’s dedication to Betty during her battle with Alzheimer’s was an example of his love and devotion to her. Witnessed by not only his family but also the care staff at the facility where they lived. The staff would comment often on how much he loved her and took such good care of her even when his ability to do so was failing, he did what he could and always looked out for her and made sure she was being taken care of the way she deserved.

In addition to his parents, Harold was preceded in death by his sweetheart of 60 years, Betty Ann Young, and an infant sister, Esther Young.

Harold is survived by his two daughters, Sheree (Bryan) Benson of Ooltewah, TN, and Annette (Terry) Atkinson of Cleveland, TN. He was an immensely proud grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: Ashley Atkinson and her children, Elise and Avery of Cleveland, TN; Chelsea Benson Geiger and her husband Haden Geiger, along with their children, Wesley and

William of Stanley, NC; Andrew Atkinson of Chattanooga, TN; Lindsey Benson Bain and her husband Jonathan of Statesville, NC; and Alex Atkinson and his wife Chloe of Franklin, TN. He is also survived by his siblings, Barbara Kirkland, Kenneth Wayne Young (Evelyn), Terry Young, and Tony Young (Dava); as well as several nieces, nephews, and countless friends who became family over the years.

A visitation will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM (CT) at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Gallatin, Tennessee. Following the visitation, graveside will take place at Sumner Memorial Gardens at 1:00 PM (CT).

The family would like to thank Legacy Village of Cleveland for their loving and compassionate care of Harold over the last three and a half years. They would also like to thank Hearth Hospice of Cleveland for their care.