Ruben Harrelson

Ruben Lee Harrelson, 68, of Elizabethtown, went to be with his loved ones Thursday morning, October 15, 2015 at his home with his wife by his side "just as he wanted".

Ruben was the son of the late Grover Harrelson and Ora Lee Harrelson of Clarkton, NC. He is also preceded in death by his stepson, Channing; one infant great-grandchild; brother, David and an infant brother; and sisters Holly and Kathryn. Ruben is survived by his wife Patricia Patterson; two children, Ruben Lee Harrelson, Jr. of New York and Ginger Lynn Harrelson of Elizabethtown; three stepsons, Doug Roberts of Texas, Brock and Brad Roberts of Elizabethtown; eight grandchildren, Holly, Todd, Savanna, Adam, Bobbi-Lynn, Kimberlee, Desi and Tanner; seven step grandchildren; three great grandchildren; sisters, Nancy Sellers of Lake Waccamaw and Patricia Lancaster of Kansas and many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews which he held close to his heart. He is survived by a loyal friend (brother), Jimmy Jones of Whiteville.

He attended Purdy Methodist Church of Tarheel. He was a graduate of Pembroke State University and served in The United States Air Force as a Medical Tech. His love fell into his job as a carpenter (The best one ever). He was a great man, daddy, father figure and friend to many. His love of family was amazing. He found his peace here with his basketball, fishing, work and trips with his wife. He took pride in all he did. Finally, finding peace, he will be missed by the ones he left behind, but we can find comfort knowing he is finally with the ones he missed so dearly.

The family will receive friends, Sunday October 18, 2015 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home. Funeral Service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home with the Rev. Al Marshburn officiating. A graveside service will be after the service at Harrelson Family Cemetery.