Harry Love Dunlap Jr.

Harry Love Dunlap Jr., 97, passed away on June 3, 2024. He was born on August 25, 1926, to the late Annie Mae and Harry Dunlap Sr. in Rock Hill, South Carolina. He lost his mother when he was 13 and was a vital part of helping his father run the family grocery business.

Upon graduation from Rock Hill High School in 1943 he attended Clemson majoring in mechanical engineering. Like so many others of his generation, his college career and life were interrupted as he responded to his country’s call to World War II. He joined the Navy and served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. He returned to Clemson and finished his degree after marrying the love of his life Rose Thompson. They were happily married for 59 years.  

He and Rose settled in Pendleton where Harry joined Horace Crenshaw’s business. Later he and Horace chose to operate independent businesses while continuing their lifetime family friendship. Harry served his country, community, church and family. As a member of the Greatest Generation, he epitomized the servant lifestyle described in Tom Brokaw’s book of the same name. He served the town of Pendleton as a generous businessman, as a member of the town council, and as mayor pro tem.   He served Pendleton United Methodist Church in an array of positions of leadership throughout his life. He was active as a Lay speaker and served as a board member for the Haven of Rest. He also served in a leadership capacity in the Pendleton area recreational program.

Harry lived a long and full life; he loved and was loved deeply. His life of faith, service, generosity, honesty and selflessness will remain his legacy and his family is comforted knowing he is with our Lord Jesus in Heaven.

One of Harry's proudest accomplishments was his family. He is survived by daughter, Julie Dunlap, and sons, Harry "Hal" Dunlap III (Lynn), Joseph “Joe” Dunlap (Ardeth), William "Bill" Dunlap (Robin); grandchildren, Nathan Dunlap (Tami), Holly Betsill (Bryan), Anna Espich (Casey), Joy Ellison (Kent), and Cal Dunlap (Cassie); sister, MaLou Dunlap Stokes; fifteen great-grandchildren; and special friend in later life Mary Meenaghan.

In addition to his parents, Harry is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rose Thompson Dunlap; sister, Floy Mae Dunlap Harper; and grandson, Mark Evan Dunlap.

Harry will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His wise counsel, kindness, dedication, and love for his Lord, community and family will always be remembered.

Visitation will be held at Pendleton United Methodist Church on Saturday June 8th, from 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM. A funeral service will follow in the Church starting at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow the service at Memory Gardens of Clemson.

Flowers are accepted or memorials may be made in Harry’s honor to Haven of Rest Ministries of Anderson, SC through their website or sent to P. O. Box 466 Anderson, SC 29622.