Betty Ann Harkness

Betty Ann ( Shuart) HarknessPassed away on Sunday, September 29, 2013 in Headland, AL with loving family members by her side. She was born November 23, 1933 in Suffern, NY to Garrett Grant and Mary Elizabeth (Donegan) Shuart.She was predeceased by her mother in 1976, her father in 1993, sister Carol Pike in 1997, sister Mary Allen in 2005, son Raymond A. Harkness in 2008. Also predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Merlin Harkness in 2003.Surviving Betty are her children; Garrett (Jennifer) Harkness of Goose Creek, SC, Betty (Jerry) Soules of Headland, AL ( who lovingly cared for Betty prior to her death), Stan (Kathy) Harkness of Elmira, NY, Robert (Debra) Harkness of Las Vegas, NV, and Deborah (John) Limoncelli of Horseheads, NY; daughter-in-law, Nancy Rodabaugh Harkness of Elmira, NY; surviving siblings, special brother and sister-in-law, Gary & Nancy Shuart of Elmira, NY, special sister, Catherine (Melvin) Bonner of Geneva, NY, Jeanne Bates of Elmira, NY and Rita Keeler of Webb City, MO; step-sister, Cheri (Bryce) Blair of Horton, AL; step mother, LaRue Shuart of Horton, AL; 15 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren , each one special to her; numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.Betty received her Masters Degree in June of 1986. She enjoyed a distinguished career with Head Start and EOP, educating children and advocating for families. She enjoyed painting, crafts, gardening, and was an avid bird watcher.Family and friends are invited to call at Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Elmira/Southport NY on Thursday October 3, 2013 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a short funeral service to follow. Graveside Service will be held at the convenience of the family.Guest book may be signed in obituaries at www.olthof.com.Arrangements have been entrusted to Olthof Funeral Home, Inc.