LEESBURG, Va. – Harold Fossett, beloved father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, passed away peacefully on Jan. 4, 2026, at the age of 81, following a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on Feb. 17, 1944, in Florida, Harold lived a life defined by service, integrity, curiosity, and deep love for family, friends, animals, and the outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frances Mary Fossett and Harlon M. Fossett; his sister, Linda Fossett; and his grandson, Nathanial Jonathan Fossett.

He is survived by his son, Kenneth R. Fossett (Tammy Miller Fossett); grandsons Zachary, Jacob, and Simon Fossett; uncles Norman Rollins (Ann), Ken Rollins (Jody), and Clayton Rollins (preceded in death by his wife Louise); and many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and neighbors.

Due to his father’s service in the U.S. Navy, Harold lived in many places during his youth, including Maine, San Francisco, Calif., Hawaii, the Philippines, Florida, and Rhode Island. He graduated from Rogers High School in Newport, R.I., in 1962. Harold proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as a Lance Corporal from 1962-1965.

He earned an associate degree from Ferrum College in 1967 and a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Richmond in 1969. Harold worked for the U.S. General Accounting Office for 21 years and later served as an inspector for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. He retired in 1994 at the age of 50, closing a long chapter of public service marked by professionalism and dedication.

In retirement, Harold moved to New Market, Va., where he lived for 25 years in the Shenandoah Valley in his beloved “Tree House” beside the George Washington National Forest. He cherished nature, reading, volunteering, and caring for his horses and dogs. Harold volunteered in local school reading programs, taught reading to incarcerated individuals, and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

In 2019, Harold was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and lived with his family for five years—years filled with shared milestones, laughter, family adventures, graduations, holidays, beach trips, hikes, pool days, and countless everyday moments that are now treasured memories. In 2024, he moved to assisted living, where he continued to enjoy friendships and activities until his health declined.

Harold will be remembered for his kindness, quiet strength, sense of humor, devotion to those he loved, and his deep appreciation for both people and animals. He built meaningful relationships throughout his life. Each connection mattered deeply to him.

In accordance with Harold’s wishes, no formal service will be held. His family will honor him privately by spreading his ashes in places that held deep meaning to him.

Though his passing leaves a profound absence, Harold’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values he modeled, and the memories held close by those who loved him.

Memorial donations may be made in his memory to local SPCAs or animal rescue organizations, and supporting these groups is a meaningful way to continue the compassion and care Harold showed throughout his life.