(April 4, 1927 – August 30, 2024)
U.S. Veteran
Harlan Lynn Raley, 97, passed from this life on August 30,2024, in Fort Worth, Texas, surrounded by family and friends.
Harlan was born on April 4, 1927, to Audrey Jensen and William “Dewey” Raley in Clifton, Texas. After graduating from Clyde High School in 1944, he went on to study at Tarleton State University. His time at Tarleton was cut short when he enlisted in the Navy and was stationed at Pearl Harbor. After leaving the military, he continued his education at the University of Texas and finally Baylor College of Dentistry.
After graduating from dental school in 1951, he started his own practice in Dublin later that year. Harlan remained committed to his dental practice and his patients for 70 amazing years. Over the years, he was dedicated in supporting and mentoring recent dental school graduates.
During his early years in Dublin, he met the love of his life, Eddie Louise Graham, and they married October 1, 1955. They went on to have a daughter, Linde. As a family they enjoyed many adventures with Harlan as their own private pilot. Flying was a deep love that he shared with his family and friends.
Harlan left a lasting impression on his community through serving on the many organizations he was involved in: Economic Development Committee of Dublin, Dublin City Council, serving as President of the Chamber of Commerce of Dublin, Flying Dentists Club (30 years), the Fort Worth Dental Society, First National Bank Board, Chairman of the Administrative Council of the First Methodist Church, and an original Charter Member of Par Country Club.
Harlan’s dedication to his community was recognized with various awards such as the Paul Harris Award from the Dublin Rotary Club, Lifetime Achievement Award of Honor from the Chamber of Commerce, and the Golden Trowel from the Dublin Masonic Lodge. Even with all the public accolades he received, Harlan’s greatest pride and joy was always his family.
Harlan was a familiar face around Dublin and his personality stood out from miles away. With his big smile and laugh, he made others feel welcome and at ease. He was giving, compassionate, selfless, kind, and always put others needs before his own.
He is survived by his wife Eddie Graham Raley, granddaughter Amanda Brogdon Larkins and her husband Matt, and great-granddaughter Linde Marie.
He is preceded in death by his parents Dewey and Audrey Raley, and daughter Linde Raley Brogdon.
Services will be held at a later date.
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