Born July 16, 1945 in Baltimore City, Maryland, Harry Joseph Torrence, Jr. lived a rich full life and was taken from us far too soon. A proud sailor, father and grandfather, loving husband, kind and gentle soul, a friend to many, he will be missed but never forgotten.

In his youth, Henry attended Merganthaler Vocational High School, later earning his GED and 1965 enlisting in the United States Navy at just 19 years of age. Harry was always proud of his service to his country, as he should have been, having served in Japan as well as three tours to wartime Vietnam. It was while in the Navy that Harry discovered his love of (and gift for) music-a gift that he shared with many of us throughout the remainder of his life.

He would play his guitar and sing in Officers' Clubs with other shipmates in his free time, developing his ability, and in his later years he joined the Choir at Asbury United Methodist Church where he continued to play his guitar and sing solos. Many of his friends said they felt closer to God when he sang because of his beautiful voice.

But Harry's heart, his pride and his joy were always his family, and he leaves behind a considerable legacy there. Harry is survived by his wife, Ada Torrence, his sons Steven Torrence (Rebecca), Christopher Torrence, Anthony Torrence, his daughter Kellie Tosadori, one step-son Mason Holloway (Lisa), and three step daughters; Dawn Holloway, Janean Pollard (William) and Tammy Nies (David). He is survived by his three sisters Viola Jastzabski, Pat Torrence, AnneMarie Smith as well as eighteen grandchildren. He is also survived by one great grandson and one great-great grandson. Harry always enjoyed attending his grandchildren's functions and having them visit.

Harry's final days were spent in the loving care of the staff at Compass Regional Hospice in Centreville. The staff cared for and came to love Harry over the final four months of his life just as most who came to know Harry did. They showed their affection through nicknames like "King Harry", "Buttercup", and "Sweet Pea", among others, and their genuine caring and affection made his final days much easier for all. The family wishes to express the deepest gratitude for who they are and all their loving support.

It can be said that the true measure of a person is not in the riches they accumulate, but the richness of love that they leave behind in this world. In this, the only true measure of wealth, Harry was rich beyond measure. He will be missed now and loved forever.

Friends may call on Thursday, October 27, 2016 from 7-9pm and on Friday, October 28, 2016 from 2-4pm & 6-8pm at the Barranco & Sons, P.A. Severna Park Funeral Home, 495 Ritchie Hwy. A Funeral Service will be held at the Asbury United Methodist Church, 78 Church Rd, Arnold, MD 21012 on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 1pm. Interment will take place immediately following the service in the church cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at www.barrancofuneralhome.com