Esther R. (Montague) Harner, 90, of Salina, Kan., passed away Monday, February 10, 2025. She was born October 12, 1934, in Minneapolis, Kan., to Floyd E. and Bertha E. (Ayers) Montague. Esther was one of 11 children and grew up and attended school in Minneapolis.
Esther was a devoted mother, wife and friend to many. Her favorite activities included cooking large meals for her family, baking, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved to garden and her peonies were the envy of many. She fiercely loved her family and was happiest when she was surrounded by them. She has been described as the “rock” of her family and will be dearly missed by her children and grandchildren.
Esther enjoyed doing volunteer work and would often bring a casserole, provide transportation, or assist with finances for those in need. She was an active member of the Cornerstone Community Church (Free Methodist Church) holding positions in teaching, music, and was treasurer for World Missions for 40 years. She was a life member of the Free Methodist Church.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Don J. Harner; brothers, Elmer “Bob”, Virgil, Victor, Billy, Frank “Bud”, and Larry; sisters, Elma Postlethwaite, Josephine Werneke, Verla Smith, and Albertha Adam.
Survivors include her children, Elizabeth McCormick (Mike Davis), Tim (Lori) Harner, and Cory (Gwen) Harner; grandchildren, Taylor (Phil) Urban, Austin (Katrina) Harner, Logan Harner (Madelyn Hayes), Joshua Owens (Jessica Meissner) and Brayden Toney; great grandchildren, Theo and Wesley Urban, Nora Harner, and Kinsley Meissner; and many nieces and nephews.
A private family graveside service will be held at Highland Cemetery, Minneapolis.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, care of Ryan Mortuary, Salina.