James H. Harnish

James (Jim) Harnish, 82, of Mount Joy, passed away on April 15, 2026. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Samuel and Mary Jane Harnish.

Jim graduated from Donegal High School and was a veteran of the Air Force for 4 years. He graduated from Millersville University, in Sociology, and got his Master's degree from the University of Pittsburgh.

Jim dedicated his life to social work, and being an advocate for the less fortunate. He worked for the Berks County Children & Youth Agency, Wernersville State Hospital, Reading Rehabilitation Hospital, and did retire after providing advocacy services for patients at Wernersville State Hospital. In retirement, Jim worked for the Reading/Berks County Mental Health Association. He also was adjunct faculty at Reading Area Community College.

Jim had a beautiful voice and was a past member of the Reading Choral Society, as well as singing many solos over the years.

He is survived by his son, David Harnish (Leslie), daughter, Emily Weiner (Jake); grandchildren, Meghan Carl (Tyler), Ethan Harnish (Taylor), Declan Harnish; and great grandchild, Ava. He is also survived by sisters, Catherine Glattacker, Martha Drager (James), and sister-in-law, Lavon Harnish. He was preceded in death by brothers, Samuel and John Harnish.

Arrangements will be private through Whelan Schwartz Funeral Home. If you would like to donate in Jim's name, please send to Reading/Berks County Mental Health Association, 1234 Penn Ave, Wyomissing PA 19607. Donations - Greater Reading Mental Health Alliance 

Online condolences may be made at www.whelanschwartz.com