Harlan Robert Rentfrow

Harlan Robert Rentfrow of Sevierville, TN, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, on November 12th, 2025, at the age of 85 years. Harlan was born February 1st, 1940, in Kansas City, Kansas. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend.

Harlan is survived by his spouse Mary (Tootie) J. Rentfrow (nee Blide), children Bonnie Campion (Michael), Connie Metzger, and Debra Rentfrow (Edward Mateus) and stepdaughter Tarra Cohen. Harlan is also survived by grandchildren Michael (Iris), Ashley (Jason), Alicia, Melanie (Dimetri), Paulo, Christopher, Jonathan, David, Aaron (Jordan), and Barbara. He is also survived by eight great grandchildren, nieces, and close nephew Mark Rentfrow (Amy), and a host of other family members and friends.

Harlan was preceded in death by his father Howard R. Rentfrow, mother Velma J. King, sister Barbara Thornall, brother Eugene Rentfrow, and sons Robert Rentfrow and Thomas Rentfrow.

Harlan was a US Navy Vietnam Veteran who retired as an AWCM (Aviation Warfare Systems Master Chief). He enlisted in Sacramento CA at the age of 17 and retired in Virginia Beach, VA where he became the owner/president of Alpha College of Real Estate. After 23 years in Real Estate, Harlan sold his business and went on to lead a fulfilling life in retirement to include much gardening and travel. When his wife Mary retired from the Navy, they became full-time RVer’s. Several years and countless miles passed before they settled in Sevierville, Tennessee.

Harlan was a member of the VP-4 Association (U.S. Navy Patrol Squadron Four), where he experienced strong camaraderie, lasting memories, and the enduring connections formed through Naval service.

Harlan was a devoted Notre Dame supporter and an enthusiastic fan of college football. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as camping, avid hunter, and fisherman. A passionate reader, Harlan cherished books and literature. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from St. Leo University. Deeply interested in history—especially the American Civil War—he participated as a re-enactor with the Norfolk Light Artillery Blues.

Harlan cherished family gatherings and consistently prioritized staying connected with relatives, reflecting his lifelong commitment to those he loved. He was an avid genealogist, tracing his family roots back to the 1500’s.

A service will be held for Harlan in Virginia Beach, Virginia on January 30, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Princess Anne Memorial Park, 1110 N. Great Neck Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454.

Followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. at the VFW 2408 Bowland Parkway, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Boys Town, Nebraska

National Headquarters: 14100 Crawford St., Boys Town, NE 68010