Gayla Lee Harnar, a beloved figure whose life resonated with unwavering devotion and a deep commitment to her community, peacefully departed on July 15, 2025, at the age of 84. Surrounded by the warmth of family and friends, she now rests in eternal peace, her legacy enduring through those whose lives she profoundly touched. Her journey, marked by selfless service and boundless love, leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
Born on July 6, 1941, in the picturesque Hood River, Oregon, to Odie Earl Goss and Daisy Mildred Goss, Gayla spent her formative years immersed in the serene beauty of the upper Hood River valley. It was here, attending local schools and graduating from Wy’East High School in 1959, that the foundations of her compassionate spirit and community-oriented values were firmly established.
Gayla dedicated a significant portion of her professional life to serving the youth and the educational fabric of Hood River County. Her tenure as a school bus driver saw her safely transporting generations of students, a role she embraced with responsibility and warmth. Later, as a cherished teacher’s aide at Pine Grove Elementary School, she became a guiding light, fostering an environment of learning and support that enriched countless young lives.
Beyond her professional contributions, Gayla was a woman of remarkable versatility and vibrant interests. Her passion for the outdoors blossomed through her love of landscaping and gardening, where she cultivated beauty with her own hands. Indoors, her creative spirit found expression in painting, sewing, and crafting, while quiet moments were often spent engrossed in a good book, particularly Christian love stories. An avid traveler, she explored new horizons, and her lifelong commitment to her faith was evident in her active church participation.
Above all, Gayla’s greatest joy and enduring legacy was her role as a mother. Her four sons—Ricky, Loren, London, and Scotty—were the recipients of her unwavering devotion and unconditional love. She meticulously instilled in them values of kindness, strength, and compassion, celebrating their every accomplishment and providing steadfast support throughout their lives. Her profound appreciation for nature was a cherished gift she passed on, making outdoor activities, especially the tradition of hunting, a cherished family bond.
While her sons were the center of her universe, Gayla’s heart expanded to embrace her beloved grandchildren and great-granddaughters. Each one brought immense pride and joy, and she actively celebrated their milestones, encouraged their aspirations, and offered an ever-present source of warm hugs and empathetic listening. Her great-granddaughters, Kayleigh and Reagan, were a particular source of endless delight, symbolizing the vibrant continuum of the family she so deeply treasured.
In the kitchen, Gayla’s culinary talents were legendary. She possessed a true gift for canning and preserving the bounty from her garden, her sons’ hunting and fishing expeditions, and the abundant valley orchards. Cooking for her family was a labor of love, and her homemade pies and cakes were often requested delights. She took particular pride in baking exquisite wedding cakes for family and friends, a beautiful tradition that left sweet memories for all.
The holiday season, especially Christmas, held a special enchantment for Gayla. Her home transformed into a festive wonderland, adorned with elaborate decorations and windows painted with cheerful scenes. These vibrant displays were a testament to her joyful spirit, bringing smiles and festive cheer to everyone who passed by.
Animals, too, held a special place in Gayla’s heart, forming cherished bonds throughout her life. From her horse Soledo and Great Dane Tundra to her parrot Pepper, Highland cow Amy, and poodles Le Pet and Traveler, her compassion knew no bounds. Yet, it was Ginger, her constant poodle companion, who truly held her heart, rarely leaving her side. Gayla is survived by her sons Ricky Senter (Shelly), London Harnar (Julie), and Scotty Harnar (Erika), along with a wide circle of cherished grandchildren, great-granddaughters, siblings, and friends, who will gather to celebrate her remarkable life on Saturday, Aug. 30, at 2 p.m. at her home, 6370 Miller Road, Mt. Hood, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Hospice of Oregon.
