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Amelia “Molly”
Harkless
Jan 28, 1930 — Nov 9, 2025
Largo
Molly Harkless, born Amelia Carrie Denman, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 9, after a short illness. Molly's bright smile, curiosity, and helpful nature were the hallmarks of her 95 remarkable years.
Born in Summit, New Jersey, Molly came of age during World War II, a roller-skating teenager while her beloved brother served on the front lines. She later met the love of her life, Earl Harkless, at Bell Labs, where he was a young engineer. They married in 1951 and built a life together filled with love, humor, and adventure.
Molly and Earl raised three daughters—Susan, Gene, and Deborah—first in Morristown and later in Fair Haven, New Jersey. In Fair Haven, Molly was an active member of the local garden club, where she shared her love of flowers, nature, and community. Upon Earl's retirement, they traveled often, making frequent trips to Kaua'i, Hawaii, driving across the country, and touring Europe. Eventually, they settled in Lake Seminole Resort, Florida, joining Molly's parents and many relatives who had retired there decades earlier.
There, Molly and Earl enjoyed square dancing, hosting family gatherings, and welcoming their children and grandchildren for swimming and Disney adventures—treasured moments that brought them great joy. Molly also discovered a love of golf, spending sunny mornings on the course with friends. Earl passed away in 2010, but his love continued to sustain Molly through another 15 years of a full and generous life.
Living independently until her brief final illness, Molly was known for her kindness, humor, energy, and generous spirit. Her family is deeply grateful to the wonderful women—Bella, Shari, and others—who helped her remain active and engaged, keeping her busy with shopping trips, dining out, and laughter.
Molly was predeceased by her daughter Susan Smith in 2022 and her husband Earl in 2010. She is survived by her daughters Deborah Fraser and her husband Bryant, and Gene Elizabeth Harkless and her husband Peter Farrell, as well as her son-in-law Bill Smith. She leaves behind seven grandchildren—Brooke Smith, Erin Chibbaro, Matthew Smith, James Smith, Anne Farrell, Jane Farrell, and Maude Farrell—and seven great-grandchildren, who will all cherish her memory.
She taught her family the value of laughter, generosity, and curiosity about the world—gifts they will carry forward in her honor.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Suncoast Hospice Foundation, 2675 Tampa Rd, Palm Harbor, FL 34684 in Molly's memory.
Her love, warmth, and zest for life will be remembered always by those who knew her.
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