Memorials 11

Terry R. Lenker, Class of 1960, age 80, of South Hanover Township passed away unexpectedly, October 30, 2023, at the Hershey Medical Center.  Born in Hershey on November 13, 1942, he was the son of the late Roland and Ruth (Straub) Lenker. Terry is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Lenker.  Terry was a 1960 graduate of Central Dauphin High School and a 1964 graduate of Lebanon Valley College. He retired in 2006 from Rankin Sales Company, Inc.

He is also survived by his sister, Judi Rankin (late husband Jack); his loving children, Deborah Boyer (late husband of Andy), Steven Lenker (wife Jodie), Lesle Harwood (husband Paul); and grandchildren, Faith (husband of Don), Zachary (wife Casey), Maddy, Dean, and Ava; and his great grandson, Oliver.  Terry enjoyed the love of his family, prolific reading, and smoking a good cigar! In his younger years he coached football, baseball, and basketball at the Rutherford Youth Club. He was an avid Phillies, Eagles, and Penn State sports fan.  He also enjoyed his years working out at the Platinum Fitness Training facility and made many friends there. Attending his children's and grandchildren's sporting events brought him great pleasure.

Brooke Marie (Brookie) Wenrich, passed away unexpectedly on October 20, 2023, in Manassas, Virginia. She was 28 years old.  Brooke was born on September 18, 1995, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and attended Central Dauphin High School, Harrisburg.  Brooke was a shy and submissive soul who loved the beach, swimming and having good times hanging with friends. Animals were her passion; she adored them and was excellent at caring for them, especially her dog Star. Brooke had a heart of gold and we'll love and miss her forever.

She was the beloved daughter to Monica Wenrich. Harrisburg and was the cherished sister to Lindsey Moyer, Harrisburg. Also survived by her niece, Jasmine Otto, Harrisburg, grandfather, John Hefflefinger, New Cumberland, and aunt, Maria Wissler, Harrisburg. She also leaves behind her cousins, Brandon Wissler (Leah), Linglestown, Megan Wissler (Fred), Palestine, Ohio, with Karsen and Logan Struble. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Frances Jovanelly, San Jacinto, CA and Uncle, Barry Wissler, Harrisburg.

Ronald C. Ulerick, Class of 1963, age 80 of Harrisburg, died October 25, 2023 at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital.  Ronald was born in Philadelphia and was the son of the late Bernard and Grace Ulerick. He was retired from Local #5, where he was a stone mason. He was a member of St. Mary Magdalene Alacoque Roman Catholic Church, Penbrook American Legion Post 730 and a lifetime member of Progress Fireman's Club Assoc.  Ronald was predeceased by his wife Carol A. Ulerick.

Ronald is survived by his sons, Edward (Lisa) Ulerick, Jeffrey Ulerick and Kenneth (Tracy) Ulerick; five grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren.

Rev. Walter B. Zimmerman (Ben), Class of 1956, age 85 of Elizabethtown, entered peacefully into heavenly rest at Masonic Village on October 19, 2023. Born in Harrisburg, PA he was the son of the late Chester W. and Catherine (Wimer) Zimmerman.
Ben was a graduate of Central Dauphin High School, Findlay University, ordained by
Winebrenner Theological Seminary and Lutheran Theological Seminary and carried a Master''s
of Divinity. He also received his degree in Library Science from Shippensburg University. Ben
served as a Pastor for the Church of God in North America and as an interim minister for many
churches through his life; York First, Salem United Church of Christ (OH), Altoona Fourth
Street, Bowmansdale/Mt. Pleasant, Mt. Pleasant, Shope''s Bethel, Lisburn, Green Street,
Elizabethtown, Maytown and Harrisburg First Church. He held several positions for the Dauphin
County Library System, including Manager of the downtown branch. Ben served as Treasurer
for Pennsylvanians Concerned about Alcohol Problems (PCAP), a nonprofit organization.
Ben is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Sandra (Wynn) Zimmerman; his children Tammy
Miller (Kevin) of Clear Spring, MD, Jennifer Vergot (Steve) of Bressler and Melissa Scheib
(Mike) of Chambers Hill; his grandchildren Brittany Downing, Alexis Ketterman (Nicholas), David
Yanich, Daniel Yanich (Sedona, Fiancé) and Zachary Scheib as well as an extended family
including Lucinda Sterling, who Ben and Sandra consider a daughter of their own. In addition to
his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister and brother in Law, Virgina Jordan
(Raymond).
Although Ben was known to be level-headed and referred to as Gentle Ben, his passion for the
Word of God could be felt through his sermons that touched numerous lives. He was a devoted
husband, father and Poppy. Ben also enjoyed painting, singing and fishing (especially at Stone
Harbor, NJ with his family). He was a loving patriarch of his family and a wonderful friend who
will be greatly missed.

Diane L. Cicak, Class of 1983, passed away October 7, 2023 at age 58 due to complications of Diabetes. She was the youngest daughter of the late John and Leola Cicak and is survived by her loving son Seth M. Cicak (Stacy), stepson Antonio, devoted sisters Suellen Patton (Randy), Barbara Reid, Joyce Cicak and Alicia Engstad (Rick) and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Also surviving is her steadfast friend Sheila Johnson who provided endless care and support. Diane's family were very proud of her accomplishments in multiple equestrian fields. She enjoyed thrifting, collecting antiques, pugs and baking.

Jack H. Boyer, Jr., Class of 1963, age 78, of Myrtle Beach, SC and formerly of Harrisburg, passed away at his home on Sunday, October 15, 2023. Born in Harrisburg, he was the son of the late Jack H. Boyer, Sr. and the late Doris Kerstetter Boyer.
Jack graduated from Central Dauphin High School class of 1963. He served in the United States Air Force as a fireman stationed in Sevilla, Spain. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, Lawton American Legion, and the Reliance Hose Company in Harrisburg, PA.
Jack worked for Conrail Railroad Company, where he made his career and retired early in 1998 from the Albany, NY office as a train dispatcher for Norfolk and Southern to be able to be closer to his first-born grandson. His grandsons were his world and post-retirement, he spent a lot of time traveling all over with his daughter and grandsons. He was a people person, and no one was ever a stranger. If you ever talk to or ran into Jack, he would treat you as if he''s known you his entire life. In 2017, he relocated with his daughter and grandsons to Myrtle Beach South Carolina.
Jack is survived by his daughter, Heather Boyer of Myrtle Beach, SC; his grandsons Christopher Negley of Harrisburg, PA, and Connor Rivera of Myrtle Beach; brother, Charles (Laura) Boyer of Cape Coral, FL; niece, Sherry Affatica; and nephew, Alan Boyer. He is also survived by his best friend and ex-wife Linda Gruhlke of Myrtle Beach, SC and cousins mostly of the Harrisburg area.

Leslie B. “Moochie” Hardy III, Class of 1988, age 53, of Springfield, passed away on October 4, 2023, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. He was born April 13, 1970, in Columbus, GA, the son of Leslie Bernard Hardy, Jr. and Esther Carnes.  Survivors include his five daughters, Merissa T. (Diego Huerta) Hardy of Peoria, Alexandra P. (Jonathan Adams) of Pittsfield, Cierra N., Maya E., and Allyssia Hardy, all of Springfield; grandson, Daemon; mother, Esther C. (Michael) Viles of Jacksonville; brother, Mark Hardy of Springfield; step-sister, Jessica (Shannon) White of Springfield; aunt, Connie Hardy-Atkins of Shaker Heights, OH; uncles, Dr. Carl Hardy of St. Augustine, FL and Charles Alexander of Clearwater, FL; longtime companion, Stacy D. Edmonds of Springfield; four stepchildren, Lisa, Samantha (Justin), Kimberly, and Daniel (Brooke) Edmonds; eight step-grandchildren, Ona, Lavaya, Kimari, Gia, Ava, Everly, Justo, and James; mothers of his children, Rachel, Angela, and Nicole; and many uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He is preceded in death by his father.

Leslie grew up in Harrisburg, PA and graduated from Central Dauphin High School. His love for music was immense. He enjoyed playing the electric bass, singing, and composing his own music. He enjoyed watching soccer, especially the English teams. For 13 years, he was a front counter manager at Hilton and Wyndham Hotels. Most recently, he worked as a sales clerk at Circle K.

Steve Spence, Class of 1961, passed away on October 14, 2023.

Richard K. Forney, Jr., Class of 1980, best known as “Rich”, age 61 of Loysville went to be with Jesus on May 20, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer.  Rich was born in Colonial Park on May 8, 1962 to the late Richard and Mildred (Becker) Forney, Sr.  Rich is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Lisa A (Reigel) Forney; two children:  Tashina (Christopher) Horne of Lancaster, and Robert Forney of Philadelphia; four grandchildren:  Hope, Faith, Justin, and Joy; two siblings:  Shirley Miller of Middletown, MD and John Forney of Duncannon; and a brother-in-law, Lester Reigel of Carlisle.
Rich graduated with the Class of 1980 of Central Dauphin High School.  He proudly studied carpentry in vo-tech.  This mechanical gentleman had great faith in God.  He attended the Manassa Community Baptist Church in Blain and was a jack-of-all-trades.  He was able to plumb, wire, and repair just about anything!  He worked at Stroehmann Bakery in Harrisburg for 29 years until it closed.  He also drove and helped an Amish stone mason for Weaver’s Landscaping in Shippensburg until his cancer became too advanced to work. 



Marcia Vranicar Csurics, Class of 1964, age 76, of Susquehanna Twp., Harrisburg, died May 30, 2023, at the Colonial Care Center. Marcia was born on September 6, 1946, the daughter of the late Anthony Vranicar, and Mary (Pilch) Vranicar. She grew up in Harrisburg and attended Central Dauphin High School, graduating in 1964. She married George Csurics in 1970 in Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Harrisburg, PA. She is survived by her husband, George, and her two children David and Diane, and two grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings Paul and Mark Vranicar, and extended family. Marcia was employed at Nationwide Insurance for 30 years. She was a member of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Catholic Church, Harrisburg. Marica was a beautiful wife and mother. She loved to cook for her family. Marica loved doing word search puzzles and playing games with her family. Marcia made many happy memories through the years bringing lots of love and laughter.

Marion Borek Hagens, Class of 1959, age 81, of Dillsburg, PA, passed away on June 4, 2023 at Celebration Villa – Dillsburg, surrounded by her loving family. She was born July 25, 1941 in Syracuse, Onondaga County, New York, the daughter of the late Walter and Marguerite Eve Tysco Borek. As a child, she and her sister, Kathy got to experience many different places as they moved for her father's job with the Soil Conservation Service of the Department of Agriculture, including an extended stint in Puerto Rico that Marion remembered fondly.
Marion graduated from Central Dauphin High School in 1959.  As a young woman she had various jobs including a Teletype Operator at Allegheny Airlines and a Telephone Operator at Harrisburg Hospital. She was married to Walter Hagens from 1967-1988 and had four children. While raising them as a stay-at-home mom in the 1970’s, Marion was approved for babysitting services. She babysat up to five additional kids most of the time, including twins, Dawn and Kathy, Johnny, and later Aaron. In 1979, the family moved to Dillsburg, and Marion became an active member of the Society of Farm Women of Dillsburg and was extremely active in the leadership of the Dillsburg 4H Club. When her kids were older, Marion worked many years at Hills Department Store in Camp Hill and later was a longtime cashier at Weis Markets – Bowmansdale. She was a proud breast cancer survivor and often raised funds for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life under the team name, “Marion the Barbarian.” Perhaps her greatest role was that of a devoted mother. She was often up late at night, baking goodies for school events.  She packed lunches with love notes written on napkins and served as a chauffeur for countless hours shuttling to sports and band practices, and theatre rehearsals, all while working full-time. She loved music and musicals and passed on that love to her children. She was her children’s biggest fan, and she always signed her notes and cards, “Lots of mushy love, Mom.” She will be remembered for her great capacity to love, her fierce survivor spirit, and her playful, saucy sense of humor. She is survived by her loving and devoted children: Thomas J. Hagens, of Dillsburg; Tonya J. Mattis (Ian Mattis), of Camp Hill; Tina J. Wallace (Matt Wallace), of Louisville, KY, and Timothy J. Hagens (Mary Hagens), of Exeter, MO. Her sister, Kathleen Borek, of Spokane, WA and nieces Susan, Kathleen, and Lorraine.  Her five grandchildren Amy, Joanna, Nick, Elizabeth, and Andy and two great-grandchildren, Cora and Henry.
 


Michael E. Bass, Class of 1970, age 70, passed away June 5, 2023 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston after a long battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Born July 29, 1952 in Chambersburg, PA, he was the son of the late Charles E. Bass, Jr. and Thelma G. (Millhouse) Bass.  Following high school, he traveled to several states, ultimately landing in Oklahoma where he received his Bachelor of Architectural Studies in 1979 and Masters of Architecture in 1983 from Oklahoma State University. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law:  Joseph Doncevic.
Michael was an architect and retired in 2021, and remained a consultant. The bulk of his career was with the design/build firm Cutler Associates Inc., starting in 1991 as a Design Project Manager, and working his way up to Vice President of Design. He specialized in campus planning and preservation; on the campuses of Clark University, WPI, University of New Hampshire, Philips Exeter Academy, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Berklee College of Music, University of Maine, and many more. Many of his projects lasted multiple years and spanned across many buildings. He was especially proud of the long lasting relationships he formed.
Stubborn yet funny with a quick wit, Michael was loyal and true to those he held dear. He adored doting on his two grandsons, was an avid gardener, automotive enthusiast, lover of classic films and TV, and treasured a wide variety of music.  He loved catching a show at the Bull Run in Shirley, MA.  As a younger man he enjoyed hunting but as the years passed he took a liking to fishing.  Michael loved to cook and grill for friends and family. He was also interested in photography, and loved to visit with friends and family in Pennsylvania.
Michael was a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Central Massachusetts Chapter of Boston Society of Architects (AIA/BSA), the Society of College and University Planners, and the Trust for Historic Preservation. He served on the building committee for the Maynard Public Library.
Surviving are his children:  Ian B. Bass, Fairfax, CA and Suzanna B. York (and her husband, Anthony York), Phoenix, AZ; his sisters: Cynthia Doncevic, Harrisburg and Juanita Nightwine, Dauphin; 2 grandchildren: Dominic and Rhone; nieces and nephews; and many friends.


Dr. George Edwin Jefferies III, Class of 1960, age 80, of George Edwin Jefferies III M.D. obituary, New Cumberland, PANew Cumberland, passed away on the morning of October 2, 2023 at Capitol Rehab & Healthcare Center, Harrisburg. Born on December 15, 1942 in Harrisburg, he was the son of the late George E. and Mary (Chubb) Jefferies.
George was a graduate of Central Dauphin High School (Class of 1960) and would go on to earn his bachelor's degree from Gettysburg College where he was also a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. Pursuing a career in medicine, he would earn a degree from the former Thomas Jefferson Medical College (now, Sidney Kimmel Medical College), Philadelphia, before interning at Polyclinic Hospital, Harrisburg. His education paused as he served his country as a Captain in the U.S. Army; spending two years in Chicago with his wife as a military physician. Upon discharge, he would fulfill his residency at Harrisburg Hospital, becoming an OB-GYN. Professionally, he partnered at Flurkey & Jefferies Associates, with locations in Camp Hill and Harrisburg. He would belong to both the PA Medical Society and the American Medical Association.
But George was much more than his professional career; he was a loving husband and father, and a reserved individual who enjoyed the little things in life. He met his wife, Nancy, while they were working at Hershey Creamery in Harrisburg. Their story was known as the "popsicle romance," as they were introduced while he made popsicles at the factory, and she packed them. This youthful courtship would turn into a lasting marriage and small family. Their first date was at the Community Theater in Harrisburg, and after that, George would often surprise Nancy with impromptu picnics.
After their daughter was born, summer vacations to Myrtle Beach were a staple each year, and family gatherings were always a big deal. As a couple, George and Nancy traveled all over the United States; they would spend a month traveling to and from Washington state, meeting friends on the West Coast and spending time at Yellowstone in between.
George was a longtime member of Baughman Church, New Cumberland, and he was also an avid hunter and fisherman. His passion was trout fishing on the creeks of Central PA, especially cherishing the time spent alongside his grandson. He enjoyed dominoes, board games and puzzles of all kinds. Despite his quiet nature, George also possessed a sharp sense of humor. His gentle and caring way will be missed by all those he helped as a physician and especially by those closest to him.
Surviving George is his wife and best friend of 58 years, Nancy (Ross) Jefferies; a daughter, Tracie Hockman (husband, Phil) of Lisburn; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a twin brother, John A. Jefferies; and his only grandchild, Joshua S. Perry.


Lawrence Lee Cirillo, Class of 1961, age 79, of Tamarac, FL; Lawrence Lee Cirillo obituary, 1943-2023, Tamarac, FLpassed away September 20, 2023 in Woodmont Hospital. Born October 15, 1943 in Harrisburg, PA, he was the son of the late Lawrence and Doris L. Cirillo. Upon graduation from Central Dauphin High School in 1961, he enlisted in the U. S. Army and served until 1964. After his military service, he attended Penn State University and earned a Bachelor's degree in Accounting. He was a CPA for many years, holding Comptroller and Vice President of Finance positions with various companies. He retired from the South Florida Auto Auction. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Pamela E. Cirillo of Tamarac, FL; brother, Stephen M. Cirillo of Harrisburg, PA; sister, Karen E. Cirillo, of Harrisburg, PA; daughter, Gina M. Deiter of Harrisburg, PA; son Lawrence (Jennifer) Cirillo of Harrisburg, PA; stepson, Trey (Estelle) Wheeler of Portland, OR; stepdaughter, Ashley Wheeler of Harrisburg, PA; 2 nieces, 4 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. 

Patricia Fawber Nolan, Class of 1984, age 57 of Grantville, died September 26, 2023 after a valiant battle with brain cancer.
Patty was born in Harrisburg and was the daughter of the late James and Helen Fawber. She graduated from Central Dauphin High School and received a BS in Ornamental Horticulture from Delaware Valley College. She loved animals and growing exotic plants, and was a member of the Hershey Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America. She was retired from Northwest Bank and FNB, where she was a Customer Service Manager. She was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.
Patricia is survived by her husband of 24 years, Michael Nolan; her brother, James Fawber, Jr.


Frank Joseph Trovato, Class of 1976, age 65, of Harrisburg, Frank Joseph Trovato obituary, Harrisburg, PAPennsylvania, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.  Frank was born on July 12, 1958, in Scranton, Pennsylvania to the late Francesco J. and Teresa C. (Manno) Trovato. He was preceded in death by his parents; and an infant sister, Philomena Trovato.
After meeting Maureen, his high school sweetheart, Frank graduated from Central Dauphin High School, Class of 1976. In their 42 years of marriage, he dedicated his life to his family of five daughters and was blessed to welcome five sons-in-law and seven adorable grandchildren.
He began his long and rewarding career with the Bobby Rahal Automotive Group as a salesman in 1996. His love of cars, his drive to excel, and his care for people led him to become General Manager of the Lewistown dealership.
Frank's perfect day would start with a big breakfast and coffee with Maureen. He enjoyed making people laugh, all things cars, and woodworking. Rain or shine, Frank would do anything for his family and friends. He was smart, strong, and fiercely loyal, and you could always count on him for the perfect pun.
Frank is survived by his beloved wife Maureen (Cassidy) Trovato; five daughters and five sons-in-law, Emily Trovato (Greg Strella), Elizabeth Parme (Zack), Sarah Hoffee (Josh), Vanessa Matthew (Clay), Angela Trovato (Bill Madden); seven grandchildren, Henry, Olive, Silas, Miles, Wyatt, Ryan and Abigail. He is also survived by an additional wealth of family and friends who love him profoundly and will miss him immensely.

Albert Arden Oberheim, Class of 1959, age 82, of Piketown, PA, passed away on August 23, 2023 at home.
Born May 21, 1941 in Cumberland, MD, he was the son of Belle Isle Stoner Oberheim and Ray Oberheim.
Albert worked for 30 years at Monroe, Inc. and was a member of HAM RADIO Club and Central PA Rock & Mineral Club. His hobbies included scuba diving, HAM RADIO, model planes, and chainsawing wood.
He is survived by his wife, Betsy Walmer Oberheim, three children, Andrew Oberheim, Lorayn McPoyle, Daniel Oberheim, sister, Margaret Stoner, brother, Ray Oberheim, granddaughters, Fiona, Kalista, Eila, Emelyn, and Katelyn, and great-aunt, Mary Jane Stoner, and many cousins.  He was preceded in death by parents, Belle Isle and Ray Oberheim.



Danny Barnett, Class of 1972.
Danny R Barnett obituaryIt is with heavy hearts and a trail of laughter that we say goodbye to our beloved Danny Barnett on August 29, 2023. Known for his infectious sense of humor and his ability to bring a smile to anyone's face, Danny lived a life filled with joy and laughter.
Born on September 22, 1954, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Danny was a constant source of entertainment for his family and friends. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for making people laugh and brightening their darkest days with his upbeat personality.
Danny's quick wit and mischievous spirit carried him through life. Whether it was a clever one-liner, a playful prank, or a comical story, he always had the perfect joke up his sleeve. His comedic timing was impeccable, and his infectious laughter could light up a room.
Danny found humor in the simplest things. He would find joy in the antics of his grandchildren, the antics of his dog, or even in the amusing typos in a newspaper. His laughter was contagious and brought happiness to those fortunate enough to be around him.
Aside from his sense of humor, Danny had a heart of gold. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and put a smile on people's faces. His kindness and generosity touched the lives of many, and he will be remembered as someone who made the world a better and happier place.
Danny's passing has left a void in our lives, but we take solace in knowing that his laughter will forever echo in our memories. We will miss his jokes, his unique perspectives on life, and his uncanny ability to lighten even the heaviest of hearts.
Danny leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and joy. His memory will continue to bring smiles to our faces and warm our hearts. As we bid farewell to our beloved joker, may we honor him by cherishing life's little moments and spreading laughter wherever we go.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions to be made to a local charity that supports humor and laughter, in honor of Danny's passion for bringing joy to others.
Rest in peace, Danny. You'll forever be the funniest angel in heaven.



Mary Elizabeth Nye Campbell, Class of 1961, age 80, of Mary E. Campbell obituary, Dauphin, PADauphin, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2023, at Stonebridge Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Mary was born on January 24, 1943, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to the late Harry and Mary (Yowler) Nye. She was one of four children and was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Sandra Walker.

Mary was first and foremost a devoted wife and loving mother. She was blessed with a wonderful artistic talent and loved to sketch and paint. Mary was an avid bowler for many years at the Red Crown Bowling Center where she enjoyed spending time with some of her closest friends and family. Her competitive nature carried over whether she was playing some of her favorite games like Scrabble and Yahtzee, watching her favorite game shows, or her favorite football team, Penn State. Christmas was her favorite time of the year. Nicknamed Mrs. Claus, she would have a beautiful Christmas tree for every room but mostly she enjoyed being able to spend time with her family.

Mary is survived by her beloved husband Hugh Campbell Jr. of 45 years; two sons, Michael Pae Jr. (Jill), from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Daniel Pae (Kristina), from Etters, Pennsylvania; two daughters Michelle Sprucebank (Greg), from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and Elizabeth Greider, from Dauphin, Pennsylvania; 9 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers Harry C. Nye III from Hummelstown, Pennsylvania and Daniel Y. Nye from Greensburg, Pennsylvania along with an additional wealth of family and friends who loved her profoundly and will miss her immensely.
 

Karen LaSchel Smith Jones, Class of 1982, passed away Karen L. Jones obituary, Harrisburg, PAunexpectedly on July 25, 2023. She was only 59 years old. Her family is deeply saddened by her sudden death. Karen was born on May 16, 1964. Karen is survived by her son Kyle Daniel Jones of Harrisburg, PA; her mother Berneta W. Smith of Harrisburg, PA; sister Kiffinee Smith of Winston-Salem, NC; Aunt Flora M. Reeves of Harrisburg, PA; nephew Grady R. Smith of Charlotte, NC; niece Gabrielle R. Smith of Winston Salem. NC, the newest addition her grand puppy Nico, and a host of cousins, other relatives, and friends.
Karen was predeceased by her son Kameron D. Jones; her father Grady Leroy Smith; and grandparents James & Arneta Walker. Karen was baptized at First Zion Baptist Church at an early age under the leadership of her uncle the late Rev. Julius V. Reeves Sr. She sang in the youth choir and was on the junior usher board. She also assisted her grandmother, the late Arneta Walker, with various events that were conducted by the Ladies Auxiliary.
Karen was born at Columbia Hospital for Women in Washington DC. She grew up in Harrisburg, PA and graduated from Central Dauphin High School where she participated in band, choir, track, and field, & cheerleading. She later attended Prince George’s Community College where she received an Associate’s Degree in Arts General Studies. She later attended Howard University and received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Her last collegiate accomplishment was receiving her Master of Science in Nursing at Bowie State University.
Karen became a member of First Baptist Church of Glenarden in November 1999 where she sang on the choir and helped on the hospitality ministry. Karen has been employed with Kaiser Permanente since 2004. She provided 19 years of service as a Nurse Practitioner. Everyday she would remind her family “I have 5 years, 10 months and 28 days until I can retire!” Karen loved caring for her patients, going on cruises, traveling with her family, and most of all planning a great party. She was most proud of and ready to plan an engagement party for her son Kyle and fiancé Nikki. Another favorite pastime of Karen was she loved shopping and giving gifts. She was dubbed the “Queen of QVC and Amazon.” One of her favorite lines was “I ordered something last night before I went to bed but don’t remember what it was!”
Karen was a kind, caring, and giving person who always put the needs of others before her own. She was a strong woman who faced every challenge in her life with courage and dignity. She was a source of inspiration to us all and will be remembered for all the love she shared with friends and family. She truly loved each of them - and if you knew her, you knew it. She will be missed dearly.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers – The Family