Harold Gray Hastings

With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Harold Gray Hastings of Delmar, who left us on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the age of 71, surrounded by his family. Born on February 19, 1953, in Salisbury to his late parents, Phillip and Elsie Hastings, Harold was a beloved father, grandfather and loyal friend to many. Harold was a master printer at Standard Register for over 30 years. Although his career did not define him, he built lifelong friendships there. After his retirement, Harold could spend more time doing what he loved, often watching his Dallas Cowboys break his heart. More than football or his classic cars, Harold’s true love was friends and family. He never met a stranger and always had a way of making everyone feel welcome. He would share photos and stories about his family with anyone he met, even without provocation. This included the delivery men who brought in all his online shopping binges. He loved a good deal and took great pleasure in his coupons. Harold loved classic rock music and a good country concert. He would blast music while driving to his favorite sub shops or while taking a road trip to the Grand Canyon with his boy Matt. Harold enjoyed the quiet beauty of his farm where he kept everyone’s favorite snacks and drinks ready. He took great pride in spoiling all his dogs. Toby never missed a treat and that’s the way Harold wanted it. He renewed his faith and love for Jesus while battling health issues. Harold loved sharing his testimony with nurses, doctors, and anyone he met along the way. Harold could always be counted on by everyone he loved. He had a one-of-a-kind generosity that cannot be matched. He always chose his loved ones. Harold’s proudest achievements were being a loving Pops, Pop Pop and G Pop. He is survived by his son Matthew Hastings and his wife Candi; daughter, Elizabeth Diemel and her husband Albert; grandchildren, Katelynn Kenney and her husband Manny, Nevaeh Ellis, and Madeline Hastings; great grandson, Jaxon Lara; and his beloved dog, Toby. A visitation time to celebrate Harold’s life will be held from 1-3pm on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Cross Pointe Church of the Nazarene, 27765 Nanticoke Road in Salisbury where friends and family will gather to share memories and honor him. Please wear comfortable clothes because Harold was all about comfort. He would especially love Baltimore Orioles or Dallas Cowboys clothes. Anything green, bright and happy would make him smile. To continue his generosity contributions may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting stjude.org. or Shriner’s Children’s Hospital at https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.

Harold Gray Hastings

February 19, 1953 - January 26, 2025