of Leslie, AR

February 23, 1930 - December 20, 2023

In Loving Memory of Virginia Morene Harness.

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

Morene is survived by 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. 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. Morene's 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. Morene 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, Morene 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 Morene 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.

Morene will be laid to rest at a graveside service Saturday morning at 10 am on December 23, 2023 in the Angora Cemetery near her childhood home with Bro. Dave Watts officiating. Bearers will be Justin Dorobati, Matthew Strong, Austin Strong, Vince LaValle, Anthony LaValle and Dustin Adams. Honorary bearer will be Chester Sitton.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Coffman Funeral Home
923 Highway 65 North
Marshall, AR  72650
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com