Harold Spires

Thomas “Harold” Spires was born on February 5, 1942, in Hazelhurst, Georgia. Harold went home to his Lord and Savior on April 12, 2026.

Harold was born into a hardworking farming family in Bulloch County, Georgia. After his early years there, he and his family relocated to Savannah, where he graduated from Savannah High School. It was during his youth that he met the love of his life, Sandra. They were both just 14 years old at the time, and their bond was immediate and enduring. They married on November 25, 1960, shortly after graduation, and remained inseparable throughout their lives.

Together, Harold and Sandra built a loving home in Hinesville, Georgia, where they raised their two children, Lucky and Lori. Over the years, their home became a place of warmth and belonging not only for their family but for many others in Liberty County, as Harold and Sandra became honorary parents to countless children.

Harold was deeply involved in his children’s lives, especially through sports. He coached both Lucky and Lori from their earliest games of t-ball through football, eventually leading several teams to championship victories. More than wins, however, Harold earned the lasting respect and admiration of his players. One of his greatest joys was running into his former “ball players,” as he fondly called them, and catching up on their lives. He loved them dearly, and that love was always returned.

Harold dedicated 32 years of his career to Rayonier, retiring in 2002 as a skilled electrician and maintenance supervisor. Known for his remarkable ability to fix anything, Harold approached every challenge with determination and ingenuity. He often shared stories and laughter about his years at Rayonier and Interstate Paper, cherishing the friendships and memories he made along the way. He would often joke with his youngest granddaughter, Olivia, that Rayonier “smelled like money.”

Above all, Harold cherished his role as a grandfather. He devoted as much time as possible to each of his grandchildren, always encouraging them and making sure they had the tools to succeed. Whether attending sporting events or dance competitions, Harold was their biggest supporter and proudest fan. He spoke of each grandchild with immense pride, as if each one were the only grandchild in the world. While he lived a full and meaningful life, nothing brought him greater joy than the love he had for them.

Harold is survived by the love of his life, Sandra H. Spires; his favorite daughter, Lori Versele (Frank); three cherished grandchildren, Samantha Dover (Kelby), Cory Spires, and Olivia Versele; his best buddy, Little Man; special nieces, Jamie Brant Lane (Brooks), Jolie Brant Jenkins (Daniel); special great-nieces, Emerson, Lolly, Proper, and Blair; and several other loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his adoring son, James Harold “Lucky” Spires; his pa-in-law, James Horton and Euna; his parents, Clarence Spires and Bernice Lee; his sister, Marilyn Turner; and his brother, G.C. Spires.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Midway Methodist Church.

Harold will lie in state for a half-hour before the service

Burial will immediately follow the service at the church's cemetery.