Henry Baxter Harlan

Henry Baxter Harlan, aged 91, passed away June 29, 2023, at Homelands, his family home in Churchville, Maryland.  He was born December 8, 1931, in Baltimore. Henry graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Hamilton College in 1953, and furthered his education at Johns Hopkins University where he earned a master’s degree in Romance Languages. He was fluent in five languages.

Having appreciation for English and the Romance languages, Henry's interest in words was evident throughout his life. He had remarkable talent for writing poetry - with over 70 verses published in highly regarded publications such as "The Lyric", "Light", "The Poetry Church", and "Blue Unicorn".

In addition to literary pursuits, Henry possessed remarkable talent and skill as an ice skater. During icy cold winters in Churchville, he could be seen gliding effortlessly across the Grange Pond.

Henry loved flowers and was an avid gardener. At "Homelands" he took care of the beds of award-winning daffodils and Iris, originally planted by his mother. 

Henry gave many years to teaching students confined at home in Baltimore City. He found fulfillment in this role, imparting knowledge and inspiring students to keep up with their schoolwork.

Of the many charities he supported, two stand out: Food for the Hungry, and Our Daily Bread in Baltimore where he enjoyed working with the community.

Henry will be missed by his surviving family members:  his sister Louise Harlan Umbarger (W. Gene), his sister-in-law Marsha Soriano Harlan, his brother-in-law Marvin Genshaw, his nieces Kate Umbarger Dallam (David), Martha Genshaw Ulman (Al), Sarah Genshaw Wegley (Rob), and his nephews Worley Umbarger, Jr.(Cindi), and Michael Harlan, along with great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul B. Harlan and Katharine B. Harlan, and by his brothers Paul B. Harlan, Jr. and George Michael Harlan, and by his sister Oleita Harlan Genshaw.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Food for the Hungry at fh.org/give

May his soul rest in peace with the Lord.