In Memory of Frank K. Harbin, Jr.

FRANK KEESE HARBIN JR., 86, former CSA President and owner of Harbin Lumber Company, Inc. passed away Thursday, April 19, 2009. His life was honored in a ceremony held at the Lavonia First Baptist Church this past Sunday.

Mr. Harbin’s lumber career started at a very young age and spanned more than three decades. During the Depression the Harbin Lumber Company, Inc. which was founded by Frank’s father and uncle, took the bold step of building a new lumber yard in Royston, and it was during this time that Frank Harbin, Jr. began his training in the lumber business as a young boy. After school, one of his first jobs was to pick up the nails that were dropped by the carpenters that were constructing the new building in Royston. Later, after his service in the Canadian Air Force and the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, Frank Harbin, Jr. began working full time in the lumber business in 1945. He retired in 1982 after 37 years as president of Harbin Lumber Company and turned the business over to his son Barron Harbin.

During those years, Mr. Harbin was an active member of CSA and held many leadership roles, including the office of President. Frank was much appreciated for his sense of humor and for his strong leadership qualities. He’ll be missed. On behalf of the CSA staff and members, we offer condolences to Mr. Harbin’s family.