Harlen James "Jim" Greene

Harlen James Greene, Jr. (Jim), 90, of Blowing Rock before moving to Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on January 8, 2026.

Jim was born on February 15, 1935, in Blowing Rock, NC, to Harlen and Cora Foster Greene. He was a loving father and husband, a proud Marine, and a man who deeply loved the outdoors, from hunting ginseng to coon hunting. If you spent any time with Jim, you likely heard one of his many stories about life’s adventures, shared with his unmistakable warmth and humor. He treasured his 68-year marriage, was an avid golfer until he could no longer play, and was an enthusiastic reader of westerns. He was also a faithful member of the First Independent Baptist Church of Blowing Rock, NC.

Jim’s career included truck driving, managing the Blowing Rock ABC Store for 23 years, painting, maintaining his yard, and creatively repairing items in need of repair. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corp, serving in the Korean Conflict followed by serving 17 years in the N.C. National Guard, and as a member of the Blowing Rock American Legion and the Blowing Rock Fire Department If Jim knew you were reading this, he would look you in the eyes, give you that big “Jim” smile, and tell you he loved you.

Jim is survived by his wife, Louise Greene; his daughter, Robin Rickards; his sister,

Martha Greene; four grandchildren, Sage Rickards, Finley Rickards, Savanna Greene, and Monty Wilson; and two great-grandchildren, Parker Proud and Korbyn Wilson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harlen and Cora Greene; his sons, Monty and Johnny Greene; his sister, Mary Triplett; and his brother, Joseph Greene.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice or that you spend quality time with someone special to you.

The visitation and funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 17th, at the First Independent Baptist Church of Blowing Rock, NC, with visitation and viewing from 10:00-12:00. Services will follow at 12 noon, officiated by Pastor Gary Shew. Military Honors will be provided by the American Legion Post 130 and the U.S. Marine Corps. Graveside services will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Blowing Rock, NC.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin & Barnes Funeral and Crematory is serving the Greene family.

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