Harry Edward Polk of Walterboro, SC. died peacefully at his home on Saturday, April 20, 2019.
He was preceded in death by his parents Josephine Carter Polk, Miles Freeman Polk & Ally Bowers, as well as his sister Mary Hall Crosby.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Vivian Garner Polk; Children Kathy Polk Rozelle (Cal), Russell Polk (Kathy), Richard Polk, and Roger Polk (Amy); Grandchildren Brantly Tinker (Ciri), Amanda Hiott (Ethan) and Grant Polk; Great Grandchildren Garner, Lane and Magnolia; Siblings Patsy Hall (George), Cookie Cail, Donna Lyons (Joey) and Joe Bowers.
Harry was a highly decorated Army veteran serving 30 years active duty and 10 years National Guard. He retired at the rank of Sgt. Major. During his years of military service, he was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Training Service Medal 2nd Class, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device 60, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal with 4 Stars, Army Service Ribbon, Vietnam Honor Medal, Korean Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (9th AWD), Army Commendation Medal, Purple Heart Medal and Bronze Star Medal.
Harry was a deacon at Doctor's Creek Baptist Church and served on various committees throughout the years. He was affectionately known as the "Candy Man", carrying his basket of candy for all in attendance on Sunday mornings. He was a member of the Gideon's and enjoyed distributing Bibles throughout Colleton County.
He always reminded his children that what you get out of life is determined by what you give. Harry will be remembered as a man of honor, a man of his word and one who valued his family, faith, friends and country.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2019 from 2-4:00 PM at Doctor's Creek Baptist Church, 126 Doctor's Creek Road, Walterboro, SC 29488.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made in Harry's memory to Doctor's Creek Baptist Church or the Gideon's.
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