Virginia Morene Harness, of Flag, Arkansas born on February 23, 1930, in Harrison, Arkansas, gracefully departed this world at the age of 93 on December 20, 2023 in Marshall, Arkansas.

Raised in Flag, Arkansas, she experienced a time when bartering for supplies at the Flag Store was a way of life. Growing up, she walked everywhere, often barefoot, and her early years were steeped in the authentic charm of mountain living.

An exceptional student and basketball player during her school years, Morene even earned the distinction of winning All-County Player once. Despite life’s challenges, she found joy in simple pleasures and made sure to infuse fun into every situation.

Her fondest memories were often made with her first cousins, and she shared a particularly close bond with Chester Sitton of Little Rock. As she grew older she loved to ride around all over Oxley and Leslie in her little Ford Ranger. Many of her neighbors miss seeing her pass their homes. She drove until she was 92 years old; one friend even described her as an icon of the community.

She loved animals and spoke lovingly to them as she drove down the road. She even had a turtle show up every morning in her yard for a piece of bread. A beautiful and emotionally rich soul, she loved deeply and was a true mountain beauty. Her warmth extended beyond family to encompass everyone she met, earning her a reputation as a wonderful mother, friend, and neighbor. Her life was a testament to resilience, strength, and the enduring power of love. As we say our goodbyes, let us remember her for the indelible mark she left on our hearts, the joy she brought into our lives, and the love that will forever endure in our memories. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the beauty she so cherished.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Cheryl Ann Strong Hensley and Larry, her son John Ruben Strong and his companion of many years, Ann Gorecke. She is also remembered by the father of her children, Watson L. Strong of Harrison. Morene leaves a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Ricky L. Strong, Jr. of Missouri, Justin A. Dorobati of Little Rock, and Matthew D. Strong of Mississippi, and 4 great-grandchildren. Additionally, she is survived by her favorite niece, Sandra K. Williams of Leslie, nephew Billy J. Harness, and niece Phyllis Branscum of Little Rock. Morene’s life touched many, and she leaves behind a host of family, neighbors, and friends who cherished her and will forever miss her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Lillie Mae Adams Harness and Theodore Roosevelt Harness, her brother Harless Eugene Harness, her sons Rocky Brian Strong and Ricky Lynn Strong, nephews Harold Gene Harness and Ronnie Dale Harness, her sister-in-law Annabelle King Harness Treece, and her beloved dog, Mouse.

She was laid to rest at a graveside service Saturday morning at 10 a.m. on December 23, 2023 in the Angora Cemetery near her childhood home with Bro. Dave Watts officiating. Pallbearers were Justin Dorobati, Matthew Strong, Austin Strong, Vince LaValle, Anthony LaValle and Dustin Adams. Honorary pallbearers were Chester Sitton.