Harriett Hafer King

Harriett Hafer King, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on September 10, 2024, in Vista, California, at the age of 87. Born in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on September 3, 1937, Harriett grew up in Philadelphia and on her parents’ farm, where she milked their cows.

Harriett married Ronald Byron Hafer in 1957 and together they had three children: Tamara, Christine, and Alan. They spent two adventurous years living in the Philippines, where Harriett provided vital assistance to Vietnamese evacuees after the fall of Saigon.   In 1978, Harriett married Frank King. Harriett and Frank enjoyed 45 wonderful years together, traveling the world, and living life to the fullest.

A creative and talented woman, Harriett designed the King family home; you can see her touch in every room, right down to the fish-shaped flush handle on the toilet.  She and Frank shared a deep love of San Diego Padres baseball, watching games up until her final days.

Music was a cornerstone of Harriett’s life. She loved playing the organ for Buena Vista Baptist Church, now Stonebrook Church for many, many years.  She also played the organ at Allen Brothers Mortuary.  She introduced Tammy to Merrell through Allen Brothers.  Harriett and Frank sang in a quartet together. Harriett also had her own business, King’s Kreations, and decorated the church for weddings and special events.  She further served the church as its secretary under Reverend Thomas.  She also worked in the engineering department at Tri-City Hospital and alongside Frank in his medical practice.

Harriett will be remembered for her love of shopping, if one was good, 10 was even better!  She loved to watch Judge Judy and was proud to be a "Deplorable." But above all, she will be remembered for her love of family. She loved her dog, Charlie, and took great pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Harriett is survived by her daughters Tamara (Merrell) Eacker and Christine Falkenberry, her stepsons David (Zvonka) King and Steven King, her grandchildren Desiree (Russ) Chamberlain, Adrian King, and Evelyn King, and her great-grandson Bentley Chamberlain. She was predeceased by her parents Otha and Irene Dilts, her first husband Ronald Hafer, husband Frank King MD, her son Alan Hafer, and her sister Nancy Benfer.

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