Upcoming ceremonies

Celebration of Life

Please come help us celebrate the life of Ida! Her favorite color was purple- all shades so please wear purple if you can!

Saturday, June 15, 2024 at 1:00 PM

Liberty Live Church (Greenbrier) – 1801 Sara Dr, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA

Obituary

Ida Twiford Harnly, beloved mother, grandmother, and dedicated professional, passed away on June 1, 2024, at the age of 88. She was born on June 27, 1935, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, raised in Norfolk, VA and resided in Virginia Beach, Virginia for the last 45 years.

Ida had a passion for reading, with mystery stories being her favorite genre. She also found joy working in her yard, enjoying the outside as much as she could. She loved all animals but especially her dogs. She leaves behind her best friend, her dog, Kali. She was always providing a home for many rescue dogs over the years.

In 2001, she retired from Chesapeake Regional Medical Center after a fulfilling career. Ida began her journey in healthcare as a radiologic technologist at the original location of Leigh Memorial Hospital in November 1957. Later, she specialized in mammograms, contributing to the successful launch of the renowned Breast Care Center at Chesapeake Regional Healthcare.

Ida was the loving daughter of Evelyne Cox Sherbondy and stepfather Robert E. Sherbondy. She is survived by her children, Robert M. Harnly, Jr. and Betsy Louvett, as well as her son-in-law, Louis E. Louvett II and beloved grandson Louis Robert Louvett. Ida was predeceased by the love of her life (her husband of 48 years) Robert M. Harnly, Sr., her son David, and her parents Robert and Evelyne Sherbondy, and many other family members.

Ida’s proud accomplishments extended beyond her career. She was a longtime doll collector, sharing this passion with her mother and daughter. She was a member of the former Norfolk Doll Club for many years. Family always was the most important part of her life, and she cherished her grandson, Louis Robert Louvett.

Ida will be remembered for her warm spirit, kind heart, and unwavering love for her family (and sharp tongue whenever she needed it!). Her favorite saying, “See ya later alligator! After a while crocodile!” will forever echo in the memories of those who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and love that will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 15, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Liberty Live Church in Chesapeake. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Norfolk Animal Care Center and Adoption or the Susan G. Komen foundation.