Harry Fairbanks

Born on February 19, 1925 Departed on April 5, 2018 and resided in West Nashville, TN Visitation: West Harpeth Funeral Home and CrematorySunday April 8, 2018 2:00pm to 6:00pmMonday April 9, 2018 10:00am to 11:00amCelebration of Life: West Harpeth Funeral Home and CrematoryMonday April 9, 2018 11:00am to 11:30amInterment: Harpeth Hills Memory GardensMonday April 9, 2018 12:30pm to 1:00pm

Harry Douglas Fairbanks- Age 93, left this world on Thursday, April 5, 2018, joining his beloved wife of 68 years, Mildred Fairbanks.

Harry was the only child born to Albert and Amanda Fairbanks in Kansas City, Missouri on February 19, 1925. He enlisted in the United States Navy on February 19, 1942, his 17th birthday. He was on two ships that sank, but luckily survived. He served serval tours in Africa, Philippines, New Guam, New Zealand. He was a proud veteran serving during World War II as a radio operator receiving his Purple Heart and other commendations for his valor during combat.

When he returned from war, he married his childhood sweetheart of 68 years. Together, they started and operated Fairbanks Antiques for many years.

Harry was admired for his work ethic, business sense, and most of all, he was a master craftsman in woodworking and fine antique furniture restoration. Harry loved and admired all things nature. He loved his wife and three girls, books, fishing, hunting, and history. He was a longtime member of the Park Avenue Baptist Church. As he approached the end of life with grace, wit and dignity, he never complained and was always quick to think of all of his caregivers at The Meadows.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Fairbanks; his two daughters, Judy Smith, and Jeannie Fairbanks.

Survived by his daughter, Janet Fairbanks Steakley; grandchildren, Gloria Gray, Tammy (Cregg) Wiese, Crystal Long and Casey (Marcia) Steakley; 11 great grandchildren, 15 great great grandchildren, and special family friend, Fred McCrary; and several extended family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be on Monday, April 9, 2018, at 11:00am, at West Harpeth Funeral Home with Pastor Patrick Hamilton and Brother Dave Werner officiating. Interment will follow at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens.

Visitation with the family will be on Sunday from 2:00pm until 6:00pm, and on Monday from 10:00am until 11:00am at West Harpeth Funeral Home