Merlin Harman

Merlin David Harman, 93, a resident of Yoder House at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community, passed away on Friday, November 13, 2026.

Mr. Harman was born on August 6, 1933 in Rockingham County and was the son of the late John Wenger and Edna Rebecca Jones Harman. A lifelong farmer, Merlin was mechanically inclined and always wanted to “work smarter, not harder”, creating many things that made farm work easier. He was known for being helpful to his neighbors and living a quiet life with his family. He was a faithful member of Zion Hill Mennonite Church, serving in many roles over the years. Merlin had a love for missions and generously supported many missionaries throughout his life.

On May 15, 1957, he married Gladys Lorene Shank Harman who preceded him in death on January 6, 2015.

Surviving are his children, Keith Harman (Diann) of Rockingham, Cynthia Shank (John) of Mt. Solon, Susan Smith (Dale) of Rockingham; sisters, Shirley Good of Lewisburg, PA, Jewel Shenk (J.C.) of Sarasota, FL; grandchildren, Christina Harman (George Nipe III), Natalie Harman (Jeff Shafer), Kurtis Shank (Morgan), Nicholas Shank (Kyra), Michaela Smith, Kenan Smith (Elizabeth); four great-grandchildren, Teddy Shafer, Violet Shafer, Elliot Shank and Julie Shank.

In addition to his parents and wife, Mr. Harman was preceded in death by a grandson, Weston Shank; a sister, Gloria Snider; and brothers-in-law, Ethan Good, Sanford Snider, and David Miller.

Pastor Robert Wenger will conduct a memorial service on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 11 a.m. at Weavers Mennonite Church.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. prior to the memorial service, at Weavers Mennonite Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday evening, November 17, 2026 from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank the staff of Yoder House for their loving and compassionate care over the last year and a half.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Singers Glen Fire Department, PO Box 373, Singers Glen, VA 22850; Singers Glen Rescue Squad, PO Box 75, Singers Glen, VA 22850 or to Gideons International, PO Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214-0800.

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.