Ralph “Doug” Harshbarger

Ralph Douglas Harshbarger, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, patriot, and friend passed away surrounded by family in his home on October 31, 2023.  He was born in Norfolk, VA to Elizabeth and Ervin Harshbarger.

Doug was a graduate of Wheeling High School, Wheeling, WV in 1968.  Upon graduation, Doug enlisted into the United States Air Force as a Personnel Specialist and stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. At his first duty location, he met Judy from Kansas City.  Doug and Judy were married in 1970, and had a great life together and inseparable soulmates.  While stationed in Missouri, their daughter, Cassandra, and son, Brandon, were brought into the world.  Doug’s military duties led the family to Kirtland AFB, NM and Pusan Air Base, Republic of Korea.  While in Korea, Doug was selected to become a Commissioned Officer for the Air Force.  As a Personnel Officer, Doug and the family were stationed at Stuttgart Barracks, Germany.  The family traveled through Europe at every opportunity.  Doug was stationed at Mountain Home AFB, ID; Lowry AFB, CO; and March AFB, CA where he retired as a Major after 24 years of service.

Upon his military retirement, Doug and Judy traveled the United States and settled in Williamsburg, VA.  Doug always had a passion for helping people; from assisting his children and grandchildren with schoolwork, teaching college classes, or providing life lessons to folks all around him (sometimes without being asked).  Doug displayed his love for helping others when he worked for the Social Security Agency and the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC).

Doug enjoyed golfing, listening to and playing music, home improvement, and traveling to uncover history.  He worked tirelessly with Historic Triangle Virginia Honor Flight providing trips to Washington DC for World War II and other veterans.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Donald and his sister Janice.

Left to treasure Doug’s memory is his wife, Judy, of 53 years. He is also survived by his daughter, Cassandra (son-in-law Kristopher); son, Brandon (daughter-in-law Crystal); grandchildren, Tyler, Emily (son-in-law Wyatt), Logan, and Lillian.  He is survived by his brother, Edd (sister-in-law Rhonda), and numerous family members.

A visitation service will be held at Bucktrout Funeral Home, November 6, 2023 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and church services at St. Bede Catholic Church on November 7, 2023 at and final resting place in Arlington National Cemetery with services at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Doug’s name to The Family Foundation of Virginia.