Hugh Haralson, Iii

Visitation:  9am-10:30am  Tuesday, May 31, 2022,  Ott & Lee Funeral Home - Forest

Graveside services will follow the Visitation at Harperville Cemetery.

Hugh H. Haralson, III, age 79, died in Memphis, TN, on Monday, May 23, 2022, closing his book on a lifetime of various and diverse experiences, including success and disappointments. Hugh was born on August 22, 1942, to Hugh H. Haralson, Jr. and Bernice Haralson, and grew up in Harperville, MS, along with his brothers and sisters, Bill, Jerry, Zola, and Debbie. As a child, Hugh was diagnosed with polio and dealt with this disease his whole life. Because of this challenge, Hugh developed toughness, and a determination to overcome adversity, a trait which he maintained his entire life.

Hugh graduated from Harperville High School. He continued his education at the University of Mississippi, where he received a degree in accounting. Hugh became a highly successful Certified Public Accountant and worked for large and prestigious firms throughout the country, having worked and spent significant time in New Orleans, New York, and Las Vegas. He also worked in Jamacia for several months increasing his experiences and taste for adventure and travel. Hugh returned to Forest and joined a CPA firm with Will Price and Ray Gibson, well-established CPAs in Forest, MS.

Hugh then commenced the chapter of his life as an Executive Officer for his family businesses, Forest Packing Company and Lady Forest Farms, both successful businesses in Forest, which were owned predominantly by the Haralson Family. Hugh became the President and Chief Operations Officer of the companies. Hugh developed a reputation as a very astute and shrewd businessman. There is an old adage as to what happens if the immovable object meets the irresistible force. Hugh had the ability to be both the immovable object and the irresistible force. His obstinance on matters became legendary, but Hugh tended to use this to his advantage.

It was during this time that Hugh became a father. His son, Hugh H. Haralson, IV, was the center of Hugh’s universe. He was as proud and doting of his son as any father ever. He truly cherished and loved his son and his son reciprocated. Tragically, “Little Hugh” suffered a brain tumor, which slowly took his health and ultimately his life. For two years Hugh was the angel in waiting, attending personally to his son’s every need.

Hugh and his son were avid Ole Miss Rebels, and their fondest memories were together at Ole Miss sporting events. Hugh moved to Oxford in his final years and made Oxford his home until his death.

Also, during this interim the Poultry industry, being very volatile, turned, requiring the family business to close. Hugh, who had been successful and proud was tested, as was Job in biblical times. Hugh lost his business, his son, and in later years his health, being robbed of the three things that were extremely important in his life. During this time, instead of exhibiting bitterness, Hugh became a more humble and caring person, often inquiring how others were doing and how their health was. He also professed a belief in the Lord, stating that he looked forward to being with his son again.

Those who really knew Hugh knew him as strong and unwavering in his beliefs and a trusted and loyal friend, who rarely asked for help but was often ready to assist. He will be missed.

Hugh H. Haralson, III is survived by his brother, Willis “Bill” C. Haralson, and sisters, Zola Haralson and Debbie Haralson. Hugh was predeceased by his son, Hugh H. Haralson, IV, his parents, Hugh H. Haralson, Jr. and Bernice Haralson, and his brother, Jerry F. Haralson. His funeral services will be in Forest, MS, and conducted by OTT & LEE Funeral Home. A short visitation will be held at OTT & LEE on Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at 9:00 a.m., with a graveside service to follow at Harperville Cemetery, at 11:00 a.m. Officiating will be Rev. Scott Fortenberry. Pallbearers will be Ralph Lloyd, Derrick Cowan, Noble Lee, Nathan Haralson, Jacob Haralson, Jimmy Gibbs, Jack Torrence, and Lawrence Burke.

OTT & LEE Funeral Home of Forest is honored to serve the Hugh Haralson family.