Derenny Lyle Harkins

Mr. Derenny Lyle “Luke” Harkins, age 52, of Gainesville, Georgia passed away on Saturday, April 16, 2016.

            Luke was born on July 1^st, 1963 in Calhoun, Georgia to the late Reverend Jesse Harkins and Joan Harkins. He had one sibling, Andrea Harkins Smith. He was preceded in death by his father, Reverend Jesse Harkins; grandparents Everett and Ruby Sexton; and Dorsey and Vertie Harkins.  He is survived by his mother, Joan Harkins; sister, Andrea Harkins Smith; brother-in-law, Rodney Smith; and nephew, Grayson Smith.

            Luke owned his own clothing store in Gainesville after high school He was a graduate of Johnson High School. He spent the rest of his life faithfully working with his father in various business endeavors, mostly centering on men’s professional apparel and home building.  Luke was a faithful son, loving brother, and loyal friend. His unassuming personality and ability to relate to people from all walks of life immediately endeared him to whomever he met.  Luke was a “man’s man” with a passion for trout fishing, Elvis, classic cars, and coin collecting. He had a special relationship with his nephew, Grayson Smith. Luke was a hard worker, who was always willing to deflect the accolades to someone else. He was a compassionate soul to the less fortunate.  He had a keen interest in history.  He was honest, caring, and tenderhearted. His life left an indelible mark on his family and friends. He will be sorely missed by all who loved and knew him.

            Luke passed away on Saturday, April 16^th, 2016, five weeks after his father’s passing.  Visitation will be at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Memorial Park Drive from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19^th.  He will lie in state at Thomas Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 20^th from 1-3 p.m. The funeral service will be at 3:00 at Thomas Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at Fain Cemetery in Calhoun. The Rev. Joey Hamby and the Rev. Terry Jones will officiate.  Flowers may be sent to Memorial Park Funeral Home.  Sign the online quest book at the gainesvilletimes.com.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Road, Gainesville, GA  30504 is in charge of arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.