Lonny Eugene Flaharty

1947 - 2024

Lonny Eugene Flaharty, born on May 2, 1947, in York County, Pennsylvania, spent his early years in Muddy Creek Forks. He passed away peacefully on October 16, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. His first jobs with the Ma & Pa Railroad and a local brickyard paved the way for a dedicated 47-year career with the U.S. Department of the Army, where he served at Aberdeen, MD, and later in Arlington, VA.

Lonny's infectious laugh could brighten any room, leaving those around him smiling and at ease. He found his greatest joy in the company of family and friends. Whether spending time at the beach, sitting at the end of their dock in Pensacola, Florida, or relaxing on a boat with a good glass of red wine in hand, Lonny treasured moments by the water, soaking in sunsets and the peace they brought.

Later in life, Lonny and his wife Elizabeth lived in the beautiful Skidaway Island neighborhood, The Landings, where they loved every moment. Some of their favorite pastimes were quiet evenings on their back porch, enjoying wildlife, listening to oldies music, and sharing a glass of wine together.

A proud Pennsylvanian at heart, Lonny's love for his home state shone in every detail of his life. He delighted in simple pleasures like Hershey's chocolate, Yuengling beer, Martin Kettle Cooked potato chips, and Lebanon bologna. His favorite movie was Groundhog Day, based on Punxsutawney, PA, and his passion for Penn State football was unwavering. Lonny especially enjoyed attending games with family on the coldest days of the year, transforming chilly Saturdays into cherished memories. He also loved coin collecting and found joy in supporting anything tied to his Pennsylvania roots.

Faith was an important part of Lonny's life, and he was a member of the historic Guinston Presbyterian Church in Airville, PA, a connection to his upbringing and values that he carried throughout his life.

Together with his beloved wife of 34 years, Elizabeth, Lonny embraced a life of adventure. Their travels took them across Europe, Turkey, the Holy Land, the Caribbean, Alaska, and beyond, creating treasured memories along the way.

Preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Anna Flaharty, and his sisters, Linda Ruff and Diane Lane, Lonny is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Flaharty, and his three daughters-Beth Stevens (David Stevens), Melissa Strudgeon (Sean Strudgeon), and Melanie Flaharty. He also leaves behind his loving sisters, Vicky Grafton, Debby Baldwin, Pat Condon, and Terri Ballard, along with their families.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22nd, at Messiah Lutheran Church, 1 Westridge Road, Savannah, GA 31411.

Donations in Lonny's honor may be made to:
• American Stroke Association: https://www.stroke.org
• American Diabetes Association: http://main.diabetes.org/goto/LonnyFlaharty