December 20, 1944 ~ February 20, 2026 (age 81)
Lyn Harkness Obituary
Memorial Services for Lyn Louise Harkness, 81, of Nacogdoches will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Laird Funeral Home with Bro. Kenneth Donnell officiating.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00pm on prior to the service.
Madelyn “Lyn” Louise Harkness of Nacogdoches, passed from this life on Friday, February 20, 2026 at the age of 81. She was born on December 20, 1944 in Timpson, the daughter of H.C. “Chester” and Martha Louise Sanders Irvine, who preceded her in death.
Lyn carried her East Texas roots with pride and honor. She graduated from Chireno High School, a time in her life that helped shape her constant love for her community. She had deep faith in The Lord that guided her throughout her life. Lyn was a longtime member of Melrose Baptist Church where her quiet strength and steadfast beliefs were evident to all who knew her.
In July 1962, she married the love of her life, Danny Harkness and for over 63 years, they built a life defined by loyalty, commitment and enduring love, making their home together in Melrose. Lyn faithfully served Woden ISD until her retirement and was known for her steady presence and dedication. She was also an active member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and took great pride in honoring her heritage. Strong-willed and determined, Lyn faced life with grit and grace. She loved the mountains and treasured her trips to Red River, New Mexico and Telluride, Colorado where she found peace, beauty and joy in God’s creations. More than anything, Lyn enjoyed spending time with her family and especially cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She leaves behind her beloved husband Danny Harkness; children, Dana Amason & husband Mike and Mark Harkness & wife Glenna; grandchildren, David Henderson & wife Kim, Corey Marshall & husband Roscoe, Trevor Harknesss & wife Rebecca, Kelley Harkness, Michael Ryan Amason and Mikayla Amason; 8 great-grandchildren; sisters, Sandra Thomas & husband Larry and Alida Donnell & husband Ken as well as many cherished nieces and nephews and wonderful friends that held a special place in her heart.
Her legacy of faith, strength, love, family devotion and treasured traditions will live on through all who knew and loved her.
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