Harold Dean Dolinger, age 86, of Lansing, NC, the Helton Community, passed away on January 8, 2026, at Ashe Memorial Hospital in Jefferson, NC.

Mr. Dolinger was born on January 28, 1939 in Grayson County to Joseph Lee and Thelma Pennington Dolinger. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by all of his brothers and sisters.

Mr. Dolinger is survived by his loving wife, Patsy Dolinger of the home; two sons, Ronnie and Cindy Dolinger of Charlotte, NC and Donnie and Rene of Bluffton, SC; three grandchildren, Lara, William (Lizzy), and Kendal; two great-grandchildren, Amelia and Chloe.

Harold graduated from Mount Rogers High School and married the love of his life, Patsy, in 1957, beginning a devoted marriage that spanned nearly seven decades. Together they built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and family.

Following his graduation from high school Harold worked in Washington, D.C., beginning his career as a gardener at the White House lawn. He also worked in the White House woodshop where he produced furniture for President and Mrs. Eisenhower.  He later served with the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department before returning home to the Helton community.

Upon returning to the mountains, Harold followed his calling into electrical work, apprenticing in Jefferson, NC, with Bare Electric, and earning his electrical licenses in both VA and NC. In addition to his Dolinger Electric business, he also farmed tobacco and cattle, living a honest, hardworking life.

Harold attended several churches in the community. He was a dedicated husband and father, a loving grandfather and great-grandfather, and a friend to all who knew him. In his retirement years he found joy in small woodworking projects.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to their good neighbors and the Helton community, with special thanks to David Wyatt and Johnny Elliott for their care, friendship, and help with transportation to medical appointments.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 13, at 1:00 PM, at Whitetop Baptist Church in Whitetop, VA, with Rev. Julian Owen officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in the Byars Cemetery in Whitetop, VA.

Flowers will be appreciated, or memorial contributions may be made to Byars Cemetery, in care of Bill Testerman, 492 Dolinger Road, Whitetop, VA 24292.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Independence, Virginia is serving the Dolinger family.