Florence Bess Harner

Florence Bess Harner, affectionately known as Flo, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, in Xenia, Ohio, at the age of 90. Born on October 24, 1935, in Midkiff, West Virginia, she graced this world with her vibrant spirit and loving heart for nearly a century, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate within the hearts of her family, friends, and students.

Flo's journey in education began at her alma mater, Guyan Valley High School, where her passion for music blossomed. After graduating with a bachelor's degree in music education from Berea College in 1959, she moved to Xenia, Ohio, in 1961 alongside her best friend, Betty Childers after her time spent teaching at Guyan Valley High School.  Over the next 29.5 years, she dedicated her life to shaping the minds and hearts of countless students at Guyan Valley High School (1959-1961), Cedarville High Schools (1961-1963) and Xenia Community Schools (1963-1990), inspiring them not only with her musical talents but also with her love and kindness.

Her dedication to music and teaching was matched only by her devotion to her family. Flo was a loving wife to her late husband Joseph “Joe” Harner, with whom she shared 52 wonderful years of marriage (married August 13, 1966). Together, they created a nurturing home filled with laughter and support. She was also a proud mother to her daughter, Lisa Trent, who preceded her in death, and was a cherished mother-in-law to Gary Trent. Her grandson, AJ Trent, was a source of great joy for her, and she treasured every moment spent with him.

Flo’s personality was a beautiful blend of humor, patience, and generosity. She had an infectious ability to bring laughter to any gathering, and her kindness knew no bounds—she would quite literally give you the shirt off her back. Known to her family as one of the most patient people they ever knew, she shared her unwavering faith in God and her love for her church, singing, solos, duets and with the choir for nearly 60 years. Flo enjoyed her hobbies, which included playing piano, reading, and going on trips with Joe. Each activity was another opportunity for her to connect and create lasting memories with her loved ones.

She was proud of her accomplishments, particularly the deep bonds she formed with her family and the impact she made on the lives of her students throughout her career. Gary recalls the endearing moments spent with his beloved mother-in-law, expressing that he always knew he was in trouble when she affectionately called him "SA."

Flo is reunited in heaven with her devoted husband Joe, her beloved daughter Lisa, her parents Algie and Ruby Davis, and her siblings—Lucille, John, Civa, Beulah, Kate, Herb, Tom, Abb, Bert, Jim, Ruth, and Edith—who have all gone before her. While her physical presence will be dearly missed, her spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Service day and time TBD.  Please check back.  She will be laid to rest next to her husband Joe and Woodland Cemetery in Xenia, Ohio.

As we reflect on Florence Bess Harner's remarkable life, we are reminded of the qualities that made her so special: her humor, her kindness, her intelligence, and her boundless love for those around her. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her, as we celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.