Dr. Harold Bahan Dumas, 71, a resident of Gloucester since 1980, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Feb. 14, 2014.

He was a loving and devoted son, brother, husband, father and grandfather. Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Wallace Dumas and Lillian Vincent.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Kathy Hogg Dumas; his children, Elizabeth Dumas Blow (Capt. James) of Fredericksburg, Va., and Sarah Dumas Locke (Joseph) of Stuarts Draft, Va.; five grandchildren, Ryan Bahan, Hayden Lloyd, and Connor James Blow, Joseph Edward “Jed” and Charles Vincent  Locke, and his sister, Jody Dumas McGovern of Savannah, Ga.

Harold, born in Jackson, Miss. but considered a native Virginian, graduated from E.C. Glass High School in Lynchburg, Va., and earned his Bachelor’s from the University of Richmond. He joined the U.S. Army in 1967 where he honorably served his country as a Medical Officer in Vietnam. At the rank of Captain, he was awarded two Bronze Stars, one with a combat “V” for Valor and one for Achievement. Additionally, he was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries sustained during his tour. He returned stateside where he attended the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry in Richmond, Va. Upon graduation, Harold opened his practice in Grafton, Va., where he had been practicing dentistry since 1976.

Harold put his whole heart in all he did. He loved and showed horses for years, winning numerous awards. Many of his horses went on to become nationally renowned champions within the Quarter Horse circuit. He put this same passion and heart into many other varied interests. Boating, fishing, photography, and farming were just a few of his favorites. However, his gift for talking, telling a story, and demonstrating genuine interest in all those he spoke to and touched throughout his life is what he is best known for.

Second only to his love of family, was his love of everything Richmond Spiders, especially football and basketball games alongside his bride, fraternity brothers, and lifelong friends. It was no mystery why red was his favorite color and the Robins Center could easily be considered his second home.

Harold was a confident and proud man with a huge heart! He positively touched hundreds if not thousands of lives through family, friends and his practice. His presence, love, wisdom, guidance, companionship and paternal comfort will be sorely missed but he will continue on in our hearts and memories.

Visitation and funeral service was held at Bellamy United Methodist Church, 4870 Chestnut Fork Road, Gloucester, Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2014. Visitation was held from 12:30-1:30, with funeral at 2 p.m., conducted by the Rev. Ken Waclo. The family invited everyone to join them after the service for a fellowship reception.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bellamy UMC Boiler Fund or the University of Richmond Spider Club.