Harold William Vining

Harold William Vining, age 83, passed away at UAB Medical West on the morning of March 8, 2025. Harold was born in Green Pond, Alabama to Homer Elbert and Lillian Odell (nee Clements) Vining on December 17, 1941. After attending West Blocton High School, Harold answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Navy on his 18th birthday, where he was stationed at Naval Base San Diego. During his tenure, he became a skilled electrician on the USS Strickland (DER-333) and USS Nereus (AS-17). He was honorably discharged as an Electrician’s Mate, 2nd Class (E-5) shortly after the Cuban Missile Crisis in November 1962, upon which he returned to his home of Alabama. Harold continued as an electrician after his service, earning his journeyman license while employed at US Pipe before moving on to the same profession at Alpha Portland Cement and finally Jim Walter Mines as Master Mechanic at No. 4 and 5 mines before retirement in 1997 with 21 dedicated years. On April 27, 1961, Harold married Helen Frances (nee Williams), remaining dedicated to one another for 63 years, until death did they part. The couple celebrated the advent of three daughters: Susan Renee, Vicky Lynne, and Samantha Michelle, later welcoming one grandson—Gregory Poole. Harold became a dedicated follower of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and continues to serve him in the next life. This phrasing is intentional, for “God is not the God of the dead, but of the living” (Matt. 22:32). He was a regular attendee of Green Pond Baptist Church until illness rendered him unable to be present. While Harold was with us, he was an exceptional woodworker, building his own dedicated workshop to make furniture for all his family, many pieces of which still endure. He additionally enjoyed skeet shooting, deer hunting, and cheering on the Crimson Tide. Pastor Carl Hall of Green Pond Baptist will officiate the services, with appointed pallbearers Dr. Gregory Poole, Michael Poole, Phillip Vining, Kenneth Vining, Geoffery Vining and Colby Vining. Honorary pallbearers are David Vining and Leonard Ward. Visitation will be at Green Pond Baptist Church at 10 am immediately followed by the service at 11 am. Burial will be at Green Pond Presbyterian Cemetery in Green Pond, Alabama.

Harold William Vining

December 17, 1941 - March 8, 2025