Harriet Louise Hurd, a spirited soul with a heart of compassion, passed away on May 9, 2024, in Chandler, Arizona, surrounded by her cherished family. She was born on April 19, 1938, in Valentine, NE, to Clarence K. Whipple and Gladys J. Whipple. She grew up near Glad Valley, SD. She graduated from St. Martin’s Academy in Sturgis, SD, and attended nursing school in Sturgis, SD.
In 1971, Harriet married her lifelong friend and partner, Lowell G. Hurd, and together they embarked on a journey filled with love, laughter, hard work, and shared adventures. Their bond was a testament to the enduring power of friendship and mutual respect, and they weathered life’s storms together with unwavering support and devotion. Together they built a successful business, Rapid Soft Water, and ran a tight ship on the ranch near Hermosa, SD.
Harriet was a devoted wife and mother, whose love knew no bounds. She poured her heart, soul, and body into nurturing her family, creating a warm and loving home where laughter and love abounded. She was a master at making any house into a home through her love of decorating, gardening, and cooking. She was a voracious reader throughout her entire life. Her mind was clear and quick until her last breath.
Harriet was known for her fiery spirit and deep sense of compassion. She approached each day with enthusiasm, embracing both the challenges and joys that came her way. Her resilience and optimism were an inspiration to all who knew her, and her presence illuminated the lives of those around her.
Harriet will be deeply missed by her loving family: her children, Jim & Donna Whipple of Lumberton, MS, Jerry & Debbie Phillips of Diamondhead, MS, DuAnn & Richard Parker of Fairview, MT, and Bob & Tonya Hurd of Houston, TX; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose lives she enriched with her love, wisdom, and cooking; her sister, Beulah & Wayne Pfleger of Rapid City, SD; extended family members, especially Josh, Sam, Spencer, and Shiloh Whipple; and a wide circle of friends, all of whom were touched by her kindness and generosity. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Lowell; her parents, Clarence & Gladys Whipple and Raymond Jones; her brother, Keith Whipple; and two infant children whose names were written on her heart.
While Harriet may no longer be with us in body, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and light that she brought into the world.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
You will be missed Mom. We always worked hard but still had a good time. I always Loved you but you are at peace now. Love, Woodie & Nancy