Jean Lorraine Harnish

Jean Lorraine Harnish, 96, of Millersville, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026. She was the loving mother of Marc Harnish and Eric Harnish and a devoted grandmother to her four grandchildren.

Jean was born in Lancaster to the late Roy and Charotte Piersol. After graduating from high school in 1948, she attended the Lancaster General Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1951.

In 1952, she moved to New York City, where she worked as a staff nurse at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center for four years. During her time there, she helped establish a new dermatology unit and was promoted to head nurse. Jean then applied for an overseas position with the Arabian American Oil Company in Saudi Arabia. Although she ultimately could not travel overseas because of an allergy to the required immunizations, she continued to dedicate herself to nursing.

Jean went on to work at Charity Hospital in New Orleans before returning to Lancaster General Hospital, where she served as evening supervisor. She later worked at Hanover General Hospital and later York Hospital. From 1978 to 1984, Jean worked with an oncology group, where her interest and skill in oncology led her to the National Cancer Institute and Bethesda Naval Hospital.

In 1986, Jean transferred to the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where she worked on the oncology ward. She later specialized in chemotherapy administration. In February 1992, she was recognized as Employee of the Month and in 1994, Jean was honored by the Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society as one of 100 Extra-Ordinary Nurses.

Throughout her career, Jean was a strong advocate for her patients and colleagues. She served as a preceptor and mentor for new staff nurses and was never afraid to speak up when she felt a patient needed something.

Outside of nursing, Jean treasured being a mother and grandmother. She also enjoyed crosswords puzzles in her free time.

Jean is survived by her sons, Marc Harnish and his wife Jennifer, their children Zachary and Ethan and Eric Harnish and his wife Natalie, their children Courtney and Meaghan; and her brother, Jack Piersol and his wife Carol.

A graveside service with a presentation of the Lancaster Nurses Honor Guard will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Riverview Burial Park, 1100 South Duke Street, Lancaster, PA 17603.